Cobb, Lynn are Targets For Orioles Seeking Pitcher

Rather than entertain trade proposals for three-time All-Star third baseman Manny Machado during the recent General Managers Meetings, sources say executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette used the time to contact agents representing free-agent starting pitchers.

The Orioles have shown interest in Alex Cobb and Lance Lynn, among others, according to sources.

(Jake Arrieta or Yu Darvish is likely to claim that distinction.) As such, Cobb or Lynn would fit an Orioles payroll structure that must accommodate substantial salary arbitration raises for Machado, All-Star second baseman Jonathan Schoop, and closer Zach Britton, unless he’s traded.

The Orioles are believed to prefer Cobb over Lynn, partially because of Cobb’s experience in the AL East.

MLB.com Orioles reporter Brittany Ghiroli discusses why the Orioles need to be in win now mode heading into the 2018 season Free agent Brandon Kintzler made the All-Star team after spending the first half of 2017 as the Twins’ closer, and team executives around the Majors are curious to see if he’ll sign with a team that plans for him to pitch the ninth inning.

This much is clear: Teams that need a closer — including the Cardinals and Rockies — are showing interest in Kintzler, according to sources.

The Phillies are among the teams interested in free-agent left-handed reliever Jake McGee, who won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2017 World Baseball Classic and posted a 1.099 WHIP in 62 appearances for the Rockies this season.