--RF Nick Markakis did not win a Gold Glove, despite leading the major leagues with 16 outfield assists. The third-year outfielder, whose arm limits most hits to singles in a short right field at Camden Yards, was beat out by Torii Hunter, Ichiro Suzuki and Grady Sizemore -- all center fielders.
--LHP Alberto Castillo was outrighted to Class AAA Norfolk, helping make space on the 40-man roster. Castillo, who signed as a minor league free agent in January, could re-emerge as a left-handed specialist in spring training should the club fail to address the bullpen this winter. --SS Juan Castro is unlikely to return to the Orioles in 2009. At 36, he doesn't fit into the team's future and could be replaced by trade targets Khalil Greene, Jack Wilson or J.J. Hardy. The team also will look into the free agent class at the position.
--LHP George Sherrill could be an attractive trade target this winter, but the Orioles are likely to hang onto their closer. Sherrill, who had his own injury concerns in 2008, will join RHPs Chris Ray and Jim Johnson -- both of whom missed time due to injury this season -- as late-inning relievers.
--2B Brian Roberts is likely the source for most of the phone calls Orioles president Andy MacPhail is receiving early in the offseason. The Orioles, though, are expected to exhaust their efforts in negotiating a long-term contract extension.
BY THE NUMBERS: 1 -- Year remaining on the contract of San Diego SS Khalil Greene, who is expected to be available in trade talks this offseason, and likely to be a top priority for the Orioles.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "I think I've been pretty clear that we don't look at free agency as a panacea. We're not going to be able to buy our way out. We need to increase our foundation of talent." -- Orioles president Andy MacPhail, to The Sun, on the club's philosophy on acquiring talent.
