The Mariners’ quest to land Orioles lefty Erik Bedard is on hold — and possibly off — due to the involvement of O’s owner Peter Angelos, according to major-league sources. The reasons for Angelos’ hesitation are unclear. However, Angelos’ first choice is to sign Bedard to a contract extension, according to one source. The owner was under the impression that Bedard was unwilling to consider such a deal, the source says, but recently learned that the pitcher would entertain an offer if the Orioles were willing to extend him at least five years.
The trade amounts to a litmus test for the authority of Andy MacPhail, the Orioles president of baseball operations, who was hired last summer with the understanding that he would operate with autonomy over baseball operations.
Angelos has a history of interfering with his front office over personnel moves. His involvement has caused tension with several prior general managers.
The Orioles’ trade of Bedard would signal a major reconstruction. Another significant deal involving second baseman Brian Roberts likely would follow. The Cubs remain heavily interested in Roberts, and the Orioles could receive prospects such as pitcher Sean Gallagher and outfielder Felix Pie or veterans such as RHP Jason Marquis and outfielder Matt Murton.
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