Orioles reportedly working waiver wires for a hitter
Josh WIllingham has had a disappointing season at the plate for the Twins. (Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
The Orioles reportedly are working the waiver wire in hopes of adding a bat in their bid for an American League playoff berth.
CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman reports the Orioles were awarded claims on Michael Morse and Josh Willingham. Baltimore could attempt to work out a trade for at least one of the outfielders, or by letting the Mariners (Morse) or Twins (Willingham) complete waivers to set those players free. The Orioles have 48 hours after making the claim -- until Friday afternoon to work out a trade for one or both.
Willingham, 34, has another year at $7 million left on his Twins contract. He has struggled at the plate after posting career highs with 35 homers and 115 RBIs last season. He returned from five weeks on the disabled list on Aug. 9, but has continued to decline at the plate.
Morse, 31, has seen his production drop off dramatically from last season's 291/.321/.470 with 18 homers in 102 games with the Nationals.
The Orioles have also talked with the Diamondbacks about trading outfielder Jason Kubel, who was designated for assignment this week.
