Josh Banks drawing interest from Orioles (updated twice)

SARASOTA, Fla. - Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette just confirmed that former Severna Park High pitcher Josh Banks, currently a free agent, is working out at the Twin Lakes Park complex. Banks, who is here for a tryout, is represented by former major league outfielder Gary Sheffield. Yes, Sheffield is an agent, and he just rolled out of camp in a cream-colored Bentley. Banks, 29, was a second-round pick of the Toronto Blue Jays in 2003. He last pitched in the majors with the Houston Astros in 2010, and is 4-8 with a 5.66 ERA in 27 career games (19 starts.) Duquette mentioned Sheffield's name last night, and a scout in camp was talking about Banks earlier in the day. Now we can put the two together again this morning. Sheffield will return to the Ed Smith Stadium complex later today. The Sun's Peter Schmuck and MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli first spotted Sheffield in the parking lot today and wondered why he was here. Now we know. Update: Director of player personnel John Stockstill is watching Banks throw at the minor league complex. Duquette indicated that a decision should come today. The Orioles won't bring him back for a second workout. "He's a local kid and he pitched effectively in winter ball (in the Dominican Republic) and showed that he was healthy," Duquette said. Sheffield contracted Duquette about giving Banks a tryout. "He sees the opportunity for pitchers to help our major league team, so Gary's been paying attention," Duquette said. Duquette has past ties to Sheffield, having signed him with the Brewers. Update II: Banks and Sheffield have returned to the Ed Smith Stadium complex and are meeting with Duquette.



Solis in California visiting doctor to check ailin...
Johnson and Johnson
 

By accepting you will be accessing a service provided by a third-party external to https://www.masnsports.com/