Peter Angelos on Chris Davis: "He's an exceptional guy" (plus other notes)

As the Orioles continue their search for another starting pitcher and outfielder, they're much more comfortable with a lineup that includes first baseman Chris Davis.

It wasn't easy, but they got the deal done, reaching agreement on a seven-year contract that totals $161 million - including $42 million deferred and payments that stretch until Davis is in his 50s. It became official on Thursday.

Managing partner Peter Angelos and agent Scott Boras worked late into the night of Jan. 15 to complete the final details, including a partial no-trade clause. Boras also had extensive talks with executive vice president Dan Duquette, though it seemed for a brief period that the Orioles finally gave up on re-signing Davis.

"I think this guy is going to play until he's 37," Angelos said earlier today. "This is a real athlete. He's a great defensive first baseman. I'm pleased, I'm delighted. If you look at that lineup, it's enough to scare any opposing team.

"He's an exceptional guy. And it's deserving of the fans who have supported this team in a four-, five-year period without hesitation."

* The Orioles still haven't reached agreement with their two unsigned arbitration-eligible players: left-handers Zach Britton and Brian Matusz.

Talks continue in an attempt to sign both relievers, but there hasn't been significant progress.

Britton is seeking $7.9 million, while the Orioles countered at $5.6 million. Matusz is seeking $4.4 million, while the Orioles countered at $3.5 million.

A Feb. 17 hearing date has been set for Britton if the sides don't reach agreement.

* Korean outfielder Hyun Soo Kim is in California to work out with vice president of baseball operations Brady Anderson. Kim has joined pitchers Jason Garcia, Mike Wright and Parker Bridwell.

Bridwell, added to the 40-man roster prior to the Rule 5 draft, flew into Los Angeles this morning. Garcia attended the minicamp in January before heading to the West Coast.

The Orioles would like Kim, who flew into Los Angeles over the weekend, to shed about 15 pounds.

Double-A Bowie first baseman Trey Mancini and outfielder Mike Yastrzemski also have worked out with Anderson.

* The Orioles are prepared to hire former Padres and Mets general manager Joe McIlvaine, 68, as a special assistant to Duquette. A club official said they're "working on it."

McIlvaine, a scout for the Orioles in the 1970s, would assume many of the duties previously handled by former director of major league administration Ned Rice, who took a job as Phillies senior director of baseball operations.

The Baltimore Sun first reported the Orioles plans to hire McIlvaine.