Weekly Wrap: O's offseason picking up, but not without problems

By Josh Land

Orioles

December 20, 2013, 8:11am

Comments

After a slow Winter Meetings, the Orioles' offseason seemed to pick up. However, it has not been without bumps in the road. To fill the void left by Jim Johnson, the Orioles sought out Grant Balfour. After the Birds had agreed with the the closer on a two-year, $15-million contract, news broke that there were complications with his physical, seriously jeopardizing the deal. Dan Duquette will speak to the media later today, so be sure to check in to the School of Roch for the latest updates. The Orioles did make another move this week, however, trading infielder Danny Valencia to the Royals for outfielder David Lough, who finished eighth in the American League Rookie of Year balloting in 2013. Lough hit .286 in his first full season, and the left-handed batter that the Orioles were seeking could see significant playing time. Long-time Oriole Brian Roberts ended his time in Baltimore, signing a one-year deal with the New York Yankees. If you're around Baltimore today, be sure to stop by Dempsey's Brew Pub & Restaurant for happy hour specials, a live band, local vendors and more. Below are other headlines that you may have missed this week. Be sure to continue checking in to MASNsports.com for the latest offseason news. Merry Christmas and happy holidays! * Catching up with the author of Baseball America's top O's prospects list * ESPN injury expert talks about recent Machado interview * O's sign Xavier Paul and others to minor league deals * S. Johnson aiming to "go out and prove I'm healthy and ready to go" * Checking in on Flaherty * Markakis discusses his offseason