But there is a different feeling about the Orioles in these first months after they made the playoffs for the first time in 14 seasons. Agents and players are waiting on them, with some players hoping to work out deals with Baltimore.

While the Orioles were able to put together their first winning season in over a decade and make the playoffs last season, they enter the winter with several questions surrounding their starting rotation. It continues to lack depth and a true ace at the top.

It’s unclear if they’ll address the top of their rotation over the offseason, but they could certainly add to their depth with an arm such as Saunders. The left-hander pitched well for Baltimore after being acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks and has proven close to a sure bet to provide 200 innings while posting an ERA around 4.00.

Meanwhile, the Orioles have been one of the teams tied to Hamilton. The market for the slugger is hazy at best, and it appears Baltimore will wait on the sidelines in an effort to let things sort themselves out. If Hamilton can be had for three or four years at a high annual salary the Orioles could get involved. However, if the slugger’s market nears his reported asking price of seven years and $175 million Baltimore isn’t likely to be interested.