Orioles rumored to be out on two big free agents early in Winter Meetings

As the Winter Meetings get underway, it's very clear that the Baltimore Orioles are casting a wide net in free agency. Yes, the Orioles need to come away from this offseason with a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher, but they are among the teams that have been connected to Kyle Tucker and Kyle Schwarber.

It doesn't appear that the Orioles are the favorites for either free agent, but the fact that they are lurking around in the background does hint that Mike Elias and Co. might not be done upgrading their starting lineup, even after their trade for Taylor Ward.

That search, however, likely won't lead the Orioles to Alex Bregman or Bo Bichette. The Athletic's Will Sammon and Ken Rosenthal (subscription required), while confirming Baltimore's interest in Tucker, report that they don't have an interest in Bregman or Bichette.

Orioles Rumors: Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette aren't on Baltimore's radar to open the Winter Meetings

The impression from the MLB insiders was that outside of first base, the Orioles are content with their infield. A group that includes Jackson Holliday at second base, Jordan Westburg at third base, and Gunnar Henderson at shortstop. As of now, the Orioles' plan at first base seems to be centered around Coby Mayo and Samuel Basallo, but they've been linked to Pete Alonso.

In theory, it makes sense. It feels slightly early to give up on Holliday, and while availability has been an issue, Westburg is one of the most productive members of Baltimore's lineup when healthy. Of course, even with the power dip last season, Henderson isn't going anywhere as the team's shortstop.

It will be curious to see if the Orioles' search for starting pitching leads them down a path where they could have a sudden interest in Bregman or Bichette if their free-agent statuses drag out. If the Orioles trade for a cost-controlled starting pitcher, and Westburg is included in the deal, that would open up third base and make Baltimore a clear fit for either veteran infielder.

Until then, the Red Sox appear to be the favorites for Bregman while the Toronto Blue Jays continue to seek a reunion with Bichette. Each team has other pursuits that could shift that belief, but for now, the bidding likely won't include Baltimore.