Second baseman Brian Roberts might be playing elsewhere in 2009.
The Orioles' leadoff man, who has spent his entire professional career in the Baltimore organization, is a free agent at season's end, and a recent report in the Baltimore Sun suggests the two parties are nowhere close on a new contract. "We certainly haven't made any progress recently, but neither side has closed the door," Roberts' agent, Mark Pieper, told the Sun.
Sources told the Sun the Orioles have put a multi-year offer worth roughly $10 million per season on the table for the 31-year-old. Negotiations are likely to last into spring training, but not up until Opening Day.
Roberts seems to hold all the cards. The Orioles would like to explore trade opportunities if they can't reach an agreement, and while Roberts has significant value, he's not the only second baseman on the market.
"That's the reality," a rival general manager told the Sun. "Why would you trade for him now when you can sign Orlando Hudson? He may not be as good as Roberts, but you obviously wouldn't have to give up anything for him."
Roberts, who is getting married this month, batted .296 with nine home runs, 57 RBI and 40 stolen bases last season.
