Baltimore Orioles: Orioles lay down groundwork at GM Meetings

With the GM Meetings ending on Wednesday, the Baltimore Orioles are optimistic going into December’s Winter Meetings

The GM Meetings aren’t necessarily where deals get done. It’s more of managers talking to agents with hopes of continuing their talks until they meet again during the Winter Meetings. Orioles executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette was encouraged with how the GM Meetings went. The meetings ended on Wednesday in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Duquette said the following to Orioles.com on Wednesday night:

"“We had a couple trade conversations. We are trying to see if we match up with somebody. We’ve got a couple more scheduled later today.”"

The Orioles are currently looking for corner outfield help, but it isn’t imminent by any means. Duquette added that the Orioles were interested in adding catching depth–there are a few free agents they have their eyes on–and he felt there was some groundwork done for possible trades in Arizona.

More from Orioles News

• Baltimore Orioles Sign RP Mychal Givens
• Gunnar Henderson: Destroyer of Four-Seam Fastballs
• Which Current Baltimore Orioles Pitchers Have the Best Curveballs?
• Orioles News: Should the O’s Pursue Eovaldi? + More MLB News
• Should the Baltimore Orioles Consider Signing Nathan Eovaldi?

"“We are getting quite a bit of work done. It’s not early to figure out who you are compatible with and where your needs match up [with other teams]. … It’s kind of like a mosaic, all these little pieces you keep adding. It helps to make your team decisions.”"

Other News

— Mark Trumbo recently declined his qualifying offer (as expected) and will now hit the open market with a qualifying offer attached to him. The Orioles hope they can retain Trumbo, but admit they have little wiggle room in the money department due to last offseasons free agent signings.

— Chris Davis had a follow-up on his hand. He and Joey Rickard are expected to be ready for Spring Training.

— Caleb Joseph appears poised to get the starting catching position if the Orioles don’t sign anyone this winter, but Duquette wouldn’t exactly put a label on it.

Next: Orioles announce Top 10 prospects

"“Yeah — well, I don’t really look at it that way. I just look at getting the club as much depth as we can and we can decide later.”"