masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgWe have conflicting reports on whether the Nationals have reached agreement with first baseman Adam LaRoche. One tweet says it sounds like LaRoche is headed to D.C. Another one says nothing is imminent and “not at all a lock.”

The Orioles can only hope that the second report is more accurate. They’ve expressed interest in LaRoche every winter since his T-ball days.

Their choices are dwindling this winter, with LaRoche and Derrek Lee the most desirable options left on the free agent…We have conflicting reports on whether the Nationals have reached agreement with first baseman Adam LaRoche. One tweet says it sounds like LaRoche is headed to D.C. Another one says nothing is imminent and “not at all a lock.”

The Orioles can only hope that the second report is more accurate. They’ve expressed interest in LaRoche every winter since his T-ball days.

Their choices are dwindling this winter, with LaRoche and Derrek Lee the most desirable options left on the free agent market.

Carlos Penaagreed to a one-year deal with the Cubs worth a reported $10 million. Pena told MASN’s Jen Royle that the Orioles made him an offer, and a multi-year proposal was a “definite possibility.”

The Orioles could handle his high-strikeout totals because he’s a plus-defender.

Here’s the updated free-agent list:

Garrett Atkins (31)
Willy Aybar (28)
Russell Branyan (35)
Jorge Cantu (29)
Troy Glaus (34)
Mike Hessman (33)
Nick Johnson (32)
Casey Kotchman (28)
Mark Kotsay (35)
Adam LaRoche (31)
Derrek Lee (35)
Xavier Nady (32)
Lyle Overbay (34)
Fernando Tatis (36)
Mike Sweeney (37)

Nothing much to get excited about after LaRoche and Lee. And I’m not sure if those two guys will increase your heart-rate.

They’re the best of what’s left. And as far as we know, LaRoche is still on the board.

The Orioles could move Luke Scott to first base and sign one of the designated hitters, but manager Buck Showalter wants better defense at the position.