Dave Wallace retiring as pitching coach (and other notes)

Dave Wallace had decided to retire as a major league pitching coach, according to Orioles manager Buck Showalter, who passed along the news at today's season-ending press conference at Camden Yards.

Wallace could assume a less-demanding role that enables him to spend more time with his family, such as a roving instructor. He left the club on multiple occasions this season to fly home.

The Orioles hired Wallace in October 2013 after interviewing four external candidates that also included Mariners pitching coach Carl Willis, Rangers bullpen coach Andy Hawkins and former Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee. Wallace replaced Rick Adair, who took a leave of absence in August 2013.

Showalter said the Orioles will look internally first for a replacement, but he warned again about "robbing Peter to pay Paul."

Bullpen coach Dom Chiti will receive consideration.

Other notes from today:

* Showalter hasn't paid attention to the criticism aimed at him for not using closer Zach Britton in the wild card game, but said he will "wear it."

* Showalter said he wants to lower Adam Jones in the order and find a new leadoff hitter, taking better advantage of the center fielder's run-producing skills.

* Executive vice president Dan Duquette said he's "encouraged" about the starting pitching next season, but will look for another starter and a left-handed pitcher over the winter.

* Duquette said "we have our work cut out for us" regarding "marquee" free agents Matt Wieters and Mark Trumbo.

* Duquette said making qualifying offers to Wieters and Trumbo is "under consideration," but it's obviously too soon to reveal a decision..

* Showalter said he talked to Wieters. "Tough," he said. "Not many dry eyes in that place."

* The Orioles could revisit extension talks with third baseman Manny Machado and pitcher Chris Tillman after two failed attempts with each of them. They haven't reached out to second baseman Jonathan Schoop, but might do so over the winter or spring.

* Showalter said he would have pulled his team off the field in Toronto on Tuesday night if the beer can had been thrown on the field in the middle of the inning. Duquette said he appreciates that the Blue Jays apologized for the incident and was told the club would make adjustments that include pouring beers in plastic cups and increasing security.

* Showalter believes Chris Davis' hand injury hampered him over the course of the season, but taking off a few days wasn't going to heal it. The season didn't provide enough time.

* The Orioles will continue to work on upgrading their outfield defense in the corners.

* Duquette talked about the organization's catching depth when asked about possible replacements for Wieters. He singled out Francisco Pena and Audry Perez.

* Trumbo is the Orioles' finalist for the Hank Aaron Award given to the outstanding offensive performer in each league.