masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgOrioles executive vice president Dan Duquette said he “formally met” with a little more than half the teams at the general managers meetings that concluded earlier today in Indian Wells, Calif. He also spoke to executives from about 10 other teams to “get an idea of what teams are looking for in trades.”

In addition, Duquette said he spoke to five or six agents who are representing free agent players, describing it as “preliminary talks” that likely will continue at next month’s Winter…Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette said he “formally met” with a little more than half the teams at the general managers meetings that concluded earlier today in Indian Wells, Calif. He also spoke to executives from about 10 other teams to “get an idea of what teams are looking for in trades.”

In addition, Duquette said he spoke to five or six agents who are representing free agent players, describing it as “preliminary talks” that likely will continue at next month’s Winter Meetings in Nashville.

Clubs have been made aware that the Orioles are seeking a hitter for left field or to serve as their designated hitter. Those are the target areas. But it still seems highly unlikely that they make a serious run at Josh Hamilton.

The Orioles want to retain free agent Nate McLouth, and I was told earlier today that they’ve made him an offer. However, McLouth will continue to gauge the market and is in no rush to make a decision.

McLouth hit .265/.342/.435 with 12 doubles, a triple, seven home runs, 18 RBIs and 12 stolen bases in 13 attempts over 55 games with the Orioles. His stock rose a little more when he went 8-for-26 with a homer, five RBIs and three steals in the playoffs.

Also, the Orioles didn’t make a bid to hold exclusive negotiating rights with Korean left-hander Hyun-Jin Ryu. No surprise here.

Bidding wars, internationally or otherwise, aren’t their thing.

According to reports, the Dodgers are believed to have submitted the winning bid. CBSSports.com is reporting that the cost to negotiate with Ryu is $25.7 million.