Golf 

When the Orioles made a scouting push to the Far East for the first time in their history this year, it was unclear whether they had committed to being serious investors the next time a high-profile Japanese free agent became available. 

The Orioles are in the hunt to sign one of baseball's biggest pitching prizes, but it's going to take an unprecedented move by the front office to do it. 

--RF Nick Markakis and his agent had recent discussions about a contract extension, The Sun reported. 

After its first last-place finish in 20 seasons, the Orioles entered the offseason likely to turn over a significant portion of the 40-man roster. 

tennis 

The York Revolution announced Wednesday that Chris Hoiles will return to the club as manager for a third season. 

Longtime front office executive Wayne Krivsky joined the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday as special assistant to the president of baseball operations. 

If this is late November, then the Orioles are still in the hunt for some exciting free agents. 

News item: Former Orioles pitcher Mike Mussina, who won 20 games this year for the first time in his career, announced his retirement, saying he made the decision before the start of the season and never wavered on it. 

In the news 

Andy Pettitte has spoken with Joe Torre about joining the Dodgers, sources tell Ken Rosenthal. 

Free-agent right-hander A. 

The Maryland Stadium Authority has over the past 13 months forgiven or negotiated nearly $3 million in back rent owed by groups occupying space at Camden Yards in Baltimore - including the stadium's largest renter, the Orioles. 

Garrett Olson has kept a busy schedule since completing nearly a full season with theBaltimoreOrioles.