Duquette steps up efforts to make a deal

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Executive vice president Dan Duquette said he's made offers to starting pitchers, relievers and hitters as he increases efforts to add players to the roster before heading home from the Winter Meetings. No names were provided, of course, but he indicated that the Orioles retain interest in more than one closer. Duquette also said he's been active on the trade front, though a couple of left-handed hitters came off the board. Duquette said it's possible that the Orioles could sign or trade for players later tonight or after Thursday morning's Rule 5 draft. He said the "effort has been there." "We should be able to add a few players by the end of the week," he said. Free agent pitcher Bartolo Colon reportedly has reached agreement with the Mets on a two-year, $20 million contract, which disappoints the Orioles. They had serious interest in him. Also, Duquette said a contract extension for shortstop J.J. Hardy is "under consideration" and the interest is mutual. Hardy is a free agent following the 2014 season. Duquette indicated that he could speak with agent Scott Boras next month regarding extensions for catcher Matt Wieters and first baseman Chris Davis. The Phillies haven't engaged the Orioles in trade talks for closer Jonathan Papelbon, according to Duquette. I'll have more from Duquette in my next entry. I also will pass along quotes from new reliever Ryan Webb, who said that he chose the Orioles after they were the first team to contact him shortly after the Marlins non-tendered him.