masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles are expected to begin contacting teams tomorrow to receive permission to interview candidates for general manager/president of baseball operations.

I’m not sure which title will be used, so I’m playing it safe.

The list is a moving target, to use one of manager Buck Showalter’s favorite expressions. Thad Levine (Rangers), Tony LaCava (Blue Jays), Dan Jennings (Marlins) and J.P. Ricciardi (Mets) remain on it, though Ricciardi is an unlikely hire. I’d place him at the…The Orioles are expected to begin contacting teams tomorrow to receive permission to interview candidates for general manager/president of baseball operations.

I’m not sure which title will be used, so I’m playing it safe.

The list is a moving target, to use one of manager Buck Showalter’s favorite expressions. Thad Levine (Rangers), Tony LaCava (Blue Jays), Dan Jennings (Marlins) and J.P. Ricciardi (Mets) remain on it, though Ricciardi is an unlikely hire. I’d place him at the bottom.

Josh Byrnes (Padres) no longer is being considered at this time. You can scratch off his name. However, as I’ve been reminded, other names could reappear if teams deny the Orioles permission to contact their executives.

A source confirmed that Jerry DiPoto (Diamondbacks), Al Avila (Tigers), Logan White (Dodgers), De Jon Watson (Dodgers) and Tony Reagins (formerly Angels) could interview for the position.

This list has changed form multiple times in the past few days.

The Orioles are interested in Gerry Hunsicker (Rays), but they’re convinced that he’ll stay in Tampa Bay.

Also, director of player development John Stockstill has received a contract for the 2012 season. His previous deal would have expired on Dec. 31. However, it’s possible that he’ll be reassigned within the organization.

Stockstill has held three titles in the organization over 5 1/2 years.

Stockstill’s role most likely will be determined after the Orioles hire Andy MacPhail’s replacement.