Late Innings

The Orioles’ search for a third starter ended today, albeit unfavorably. Milwaukee inked free agent starter Braden Looper to a one year, 5MM deal today. There’s a 2010 option on the table. Looper, converted as a starter for the past two years with the Cardinals, threw 199 innings last season with the Cardinals, winning 12 games in the process.

Looper would have fit in perfectly with the Orioles, however he made it clear that he wanted to remain in the National League. Baltimore, baring any unexpected pickup, is most likely going to enter camp with the current arms that they have in house. Granted it’s by no means a pretty set, but it’s a much brighter and deeper picture than was a year before.