FRIDAY: A small update from Roch Kubatko: nothing is imminent with the Orioles and Hill. He says not to expect an announcement before next week, if the two teams are to hammer out a deal.
THURSDAY: Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun reports that the Orioles are looking to acquire Cubs lefty Rich Hill. Hill is out of options, limiting his value. Zrebiec notes that Hill could benefit from a reunion with Rick Kranitz, his former Triple A pitching coach.
An industry source told Zrebiec that it’s a "strong possibility" that Hill will end up with the Orioles. Apparently the Cubs would receive a player to be named later in return, the value of whom would hinge on Hill’s success in Baltimore. The Mariners have also shown interest, but the O’s are believed to be in the lead at this point. Hill, 28, walked 18 in 19.2 innings last year before his demotion to the minors. He had a nice run for the Cubs in 2006-07.