O's nearing deal with Duquette

I've received confirmation that Dan Duquette is heading back to Baltimore, and the Orioles could be drawing close to naming their new president of baseball operations. No contract has been offered, according to a source, but the two sides will attempt to hammer out a deal this weekend. ESPN's Tim Kurkjian first reported that Duquette was returning to Baltimore. Duquette interviewed yesterday, and I'm told that his detailed presentation impressed everyone in the room. One member of the organization described him as a "brilliant guy" and added that nobody is more connected to the Latin American and Asian markets than Duquette. The Orioles received numerous recommendations for Duquette, and he eventually contacted them about an interview. He became the sixth candidate yesterday to meet with the search committee, following Jerry Dipoto, Tony LaCava, De Jon Watson, John Stockstill and Scott Proefrock. Duquette has served as GM of the Expos and Red Sox. He interviewed for the Angels' job that went to Dipoto. I'm told that former Mets GM Omar Minaya is hoping to get an interview, but the search might be nearing an end. At this point, no other interviews have been scheduled. Earlier this week, we expected Yankees scouting director Damon Oppenheimer to fly into Baltimore. I'm told that no announcement on Andy MacPhail's replacement is expected before Monday.