masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThat’s the word spreading through the lobby of the Swan and Dolphin Resort here in Lake Buena Vista. The Orioles are close to finalizing a trade that would bring third baseman Mark Reynolds to Baltimore for reliever David Hernandez and one more bullpen arm.

Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic tweets that Kam Mickolio is a strong possibility.

I’ve talked to officials who question the wisdom of surrendering an arm like Hernandez’s, but that’s apparently the only way that the Orioles can…That’s the word spreading through the lobby of the Swan and Dolphin Resort here in Lake Buena Vista. The Orioles are close to finalizing a trade that would bring third baseman Mark Reynolds to Baltimore for reliever David Hernandez and one more bullpen arm.

Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic tweets that Kam Mickolio is a strong possibility.

I’ve talked to officials who question the wisdom of surrendering an arm like Hernandez’s, but that’s apparently the only way that the Orioles can get the deal done. Every team inquires about him.

MIckolio put up great numbers in the Arizona Fall League, but he’s had plenty of chances to stick in Baltimore and couldn’t do it. I’m fine with including him in the deal.

Hernandez could come back to bite them, but any deal that the Orioles make is going to cost them at least one young pitcher. They haven’t dipped into the cavalry. They’ll end up signing at least one free-agent reliever to ease Hernandez’s loss. And hopefully, Jim Johnson stays healthy all season and can once again become a dominant set-up man.

On another note, manager Buck Showalter will meet with reporters tomorrow at 4 p.m.

Update: A source says the deal is completed, with Hernandez and Mickolio going to the Diamondbacks for Reynolds. It’s being reported by various outlets.

One corner infield position has been filled.

Reynolds is signed through 2012 with a team option for 2013.