A few weeks ago, the Orioles informed the public of the issues All-Star second baseman Brian Roberts was having with his back. Neither Roberts nor his manager Dave Trembley initially believed the herniated disc injury would linger long enough for the the veteran to miss Opening Day, but things may have changed. There are now reports surfacing that Orioles president Andy MacPhail might start looking outside the organization for second base help because Roberts' back is a "growing concern." If there's been a fixture for the Orioles during the past seven seasons, it's been Roberts, who has consistently and admirably filled both second base and the leadoff spot in the batting order. He led the majors in doubles last season (56) while stealing 30 bases and hitting .283 with a .356 OBP.
In house, the Orioles could use Robert Andino or Justin Turner, who would both be out of position and aren't overly enticing everyday options. Ty Wigginton appeared at second base in eight games last season, but he's not equipped to handle it more than on rare occasions. Really, the Orioles were counting on 150-plus games from Roberts, as usual, which is why they'll have to look outside the organization to replace him.
If the Orioles wanted to pursue an available option via free agency, well, they can probably give up on that idea pretty quickly. The only free agent who can play second base is Ryan Freel, who did so twice for the Orioles in 2009. Of course, Freel hit .193 last year and doesn't appear to have much left in the tank. That means the likely path here is a trade.
When it comes to MacPhail, though, this is a very odd proposition at this point in the season. He's a notoriously deliberate contestant in trade talks and is normally very close to the vest in terms of negotiating.
The fact that he's letting it be known the Orioles are looking for second base help and wants to get some during spring training is possibly a harbinger that Roberts' back problems are going to be a long-term issue in 2010.
