The Baltimore Orioles have been the primary focus of MLB rumors this week as their renewed interest in Yovani Gallardo has caused a snowball effect in terms of their potential free-agent signings and trade discussions.
Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce was mentioned as a potential trade candidate for the Orioles. The club is reportedly looking to upgrade their outfield (rumors have indicated they're also possibly interested in signing Dexter Fowler at the right price). Initially, it was speculated the O's don't possess enough young talent/prospects to make a deal for Bruce, but it appears as if the Reds are optimistic.
Jon Heyman reported last night that the Reds believe Baltimore has the necessary prospects to execute a trade for Bruce. Heyman says the Orioles "likely to add one hitter" and will focus on the endeavor once a deal with Gallardo gets done. They plan to choose between Bruce, Fowler and free agent Pedro Alvarez.
At this point it's unclear what they're going to do. Baltimore possesses perhaps the worst farm system in the MLB, so it'd be hard for them to surrender whatever hopeful talent they have left for Bruce, who batted just .226 last year with a .729 OPS. He's also owed $12.5 million in 2016 and has a $13 million team option for 2017.
On the other hand, Fowler will cost them a selection in the upcoming MLB Draft. If the O's sign Gallardo, they will surrender the No. 14 overall pick to the Texas Rangers. Signing Fowler (in addition to Gallardo) would mean they'd have to give the No. 29 overall pick to the Chicago Cubs.
Alvarez would only cost them whatever he's commanding on the open market (which isn't much) and he could become the team's full-time DH, but it's certainly possible the O's want someone who can contribute on both sides of the ball. Alvarez is only capable of playing first and third base and both of those positions are already occupied. Additionally, his defense at both posts is poor, as evidenced during his time with the Pittsburgh Pirates, so it might not be worth it for the team to sign him and make adjustments to the roster (for example, giving Chris Davis and Mark Trumbo more of a role in the outfield).
Nonetheless, Baltimore needs to upgrade their outfield with a player whose primary defensive experience is in left or right field. The depth chart lists Ryan Flaherty and Nolan Reimold in the corner spots, which isn't necessarily a recipe for success as both have largely been part-time players during their MLB tenures.
Depending on what the Reds are asking for, a trade for Bruce could be Orioles' best bet. They could upgrade the outfield, preserve the No. 29 pick and be active on the international market once the new signing period begins - with the latter two moves helping bolster their farm system.
