Orioles meeting today with agent Scott Boras

NASHVILLE - Providing further proof that they haven't surrendered hope of re-signing first baseman Chris Davis, the Orioles are meeting today with agent Scott Boras at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.

Multiple people have confirmed the meeting, and Davis won't be the lone topic of conversation.

Boras also represents Pedro Alvarez, who was non-tendered by the Pirates and intrigues the Orioles as a potential left-handed bat at designated hitter. Outfielder Denard Span, who interests the Orioles as a possible right fielder and leadoff hitter, switched from CAA Sports to the Boras Corporation a few months ago.

The meeting raises the question of whether the Orioles could carry Davis, Alvarez and Mark Trumbo on their 25-man roster.

Davis prefers first base despite having experience in the outfield. The Orioles acknowledge that Trumbo is better at first base than the outfield, where his defense doesn't meet their lofty standards. Alvarez is below-average, to put it mildly, at third and first base.

Asked about Trumbo this morning on MLB Network Radio, Showalter said, "I like how engaged he is on defense. You may not be the best, but as long as you're engaged, that's great."

The Orioles have committed a projected $32.65 million on Trumbo, Matt Wieters and Darren O'Day for the 2016 season. Trumbo's salary hasn't been determined, but he's expected to be at or near $9.1 million as an arbitration-eligible player. Wieters took the $15.8 million qualifying offer and O'Day's four-year contract holds an annual average value of $7.75 million.

Executive vice president Dan Duquette intends to add a starting pitcher, an outfielder - with emphasis on a left-handed bat - and perhaps another reliever. However, ownership has given the green light to re-signing Davis, and the Orioles believe they have a "competitive offer" on the table.

As I've written, they just don't know which teams are providing the competition.

A person tied to the Blue Jays said rumors of the club's serious negotiations with Davis are false. However, other clubs could jump into the bidding if deciding to reallocate their funds, and there's always the possibility of a mystery team.

As always, stay tuned.