Orioles interested in Bonifacio, and other notes

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

July 30, 2014, 12:36pm

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Less than 24 hours until the non-waiver trade deadline and rumors are swirling like hot dog wrappers in a wind storm.

The Orioles have definite interest in switch-hitting utility player Emilio Bonifacio, who's batting .279/.318/.373 with 14 doubles, three triples, two home runs and 18 RBIs in 69 games with the Cubs. He's been an intriguing target for the Orioles over the past few years and I'm told the two sides are engaged in talks.

Bonifacio, 29, can play second base, third base and shortstop, as well as all three outfield positions.

As for Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester, I'm told by multiple sources that the sides aren't close to a deal because the Orioles won't part with Kevin Gausman or Dylan Bundy.

I had one person tell me earlier today that talks were heating up, but others are insisting that nothing is close.

Meanwhile, Chris Davis remains home today and isn't expected at the ballpark. He's slightly better, but he's still running a fever.

Ubaldo Jimenez is expected to start Sunday or Monday night at Triple-A Norfolk, but a final decision is pending.