masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThis is the time of year when we suggest ways that the Orioles can improve their roster.

We know the needs, but who fills them?

Third baseman Brandon Inge is off the market after signing a two-year extension with the Tigers. I’m not sure how many of you had penciled him into your Opening Day lineup.

So what about Mark Reynolds?

I bring up his name because I’m told that one of the talk shows on sports-radio KTAR in Phoenix devoted significant air time to the idea of the Arizona…This is the time of year when we suggest ways that the Orioles can improve their roster.

We know the needs, but who fills them?

Third baseman Brandon Inge is off the market after signing a two-year extension with the Tigers. I’m not sure how many of you had penciled him into your Opening Day lineup.

So what about Mark Reynolds?

I bring up his name because I’m told that one of the talk shows on sports-radio KTAR in Phoenix devoted significant air time to the idea of the Arizona Diamondbacks trading Reynolds to the Orioles for some pitching help.

The Diamondbacks need to reinforce their bullpen. That’s one of general manager Kevin Towers’ top priorities. And the rotation also must be addressed, the word on the street being that Brandon Webb is done (he recently topped out at 82 mph in the fall instructional league.)

As a friend of mine put it, Reynolds would lead the Orioles in home runs and strikeouts. So would Adam Dunn.

Reynolds has improved defensively at third base, reducing his errors from 34 in 2008 to 18 this year. He’s also known as a good clubhouse guy, from what I’ve heard. And he played at the University of Virginia, so he must be pretty comfortable on this coast.

Did I mention that he hits a lot of home runs? Thirty-two this season and 44 last year.

Did I mention that he strikes out a lot? He fanned 211 times in 499 at-bats this season.

Reynolds batted .260, drove in 102 runs and had a .892 OPS last season. As the Diamondbacks sunk to the bottom this year, he batted .198, drove in 85 runs and posted a .753 OPS.

Though primarily a third baseman, Reynolds also has played first. He made two appearances at second base and two in right field in 2007.

The Diamondbacks are willing to part with him if they can get pitching in return.

Do you want this guy? And if so, what would you give up?