Angelos on Duquette: "We're not relinquishing him, period"

SAN DIEGO - Orioles managing partner Peter G. Angelos said he fully expects executive vice president Dan Duquette to remain in the organization in his present capacity and has no intention of losing him to the Blue Jays.

ESPN first reported today that Duquette was among the Blue Jays' top candidates to replace longtime CEO Paul Beeston, which caused a stir before the Winter Meetings officially began here.

Duquette politely declined to be interviewed when I approached him after our flight landed, saying he's scheduled to meet with reporters on Monday afternoon.

Angelos indicated the Blue Jays won't receive permission to interview Duquette, who was hired in 2012 and received an extension that carries through the 2018 season.

"The rule is if they're interested in our GM, they have no right to speak with him or make any attempt to induce him into taking any position," Angelos said today in a phone interview.

"They would have to contact us and ask if we're willing to relinquish him. We're not relinquishing him, period. He's signed for four more years and we're delighted by the team's performance. We intend for him to remain for the next four years. We're satisfied with him, obviously."

Manager Buck Showalter also is under contract through 2018. Together, they've led the Orioles to three straight winning seasons and two playoff appearances.

"They both have performed exceptionally well. We have no reason to let them go," Angelos said, adding that he has "no proof" that the Blue Jays have discussed interviewing Duquette.

"We're pleased with the performance of Dan as our GM and last season's performance by the club illustrates that clearly. There's no reason we'd be willing to transfer his presence to any other ballclub. He's received two awards for the excellent job he's performed in 2014. As far as the Orioles are concerned, he's our GM and we expect him to remain for the four years remaining on his contract. And very likely for additional years once that contract has expired.

"It's been a pleasure working with him."