masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles are getting close to a trade that would send first baseman Derrek Lee to the Pirates for a lower-level minor league player. They’d like to get it done before tomorrow.

Either way, first baseman Chris Davis and pitcher Tommy Hunter are joining the Orioles in New York tomorrow. Hunter will take Koji Uehara’s place on the roster. Davis would replace Lee if the Orioles can complete the deal with Pittsburgh.

Nothing is finalized, but it’s the next logical step after today’s trade…The Orioles are getting close to a trade that would send first baseman Derrek Lee to the Pirates for a lower-level minor league player. They’d like to get it done before tomorrow.

Either way, first baseman Chris Davis and pitcher Tommy Hunter are joining the Orioles in New York tomorrow. Hunter will take Koji Uehara’s place on the roster. Davis would replace Lee if the Orioles can complete the deal with Pittsburgh.

Nothing is finalized, but it’s the next logical step after today’s trade with the Rangers.

The Orioles are more inclined to hold onto starter Jeremy Guthrie through the rest of the season unless they’re overwhelmed with an offer before 4 p.m. tomorrow. More teams would be in the mix for his services over the winter, and the free-agent class isn’t that deep. The return would likely be better if the Orioles waited.

They also could choose to keep him, of course. They haven’t been looking to dump him.

Shortstop Cesar Izturis won’t be activated from the disabled list this weekend, which is good news for infielder Blake Davis. Izturis will continue his rehab and join the Orioles later.

Meanwhile, Michael Gonzalez faced one batter and was hit on the left hand by a line drive from Mark Teixeira. Manager Buck Showalter reluctantly has to go to his bullpen again.