The Mariners have asked prized outfield prospect Adam Jones to return to the U.S. from winter ball in Venezuela, major-league sources say, in the strongest indication yet that a deal for Orioles left-hander Erik Bedard is getting close. Jones is the centerpiece of the Mariners’ offer for Bedard, and the team would not want him to risk injury by continuing to play if the trade was imminent. Jones’ Venezuelan Winter League team is currently in the playoffs.
According to the The Seattle Times, Jones is headed to Baltimore for a physical. Seattle’s offer is also expected to include left-handed reliever George Sherrill, minor league righty Chris Tillman and one or two other prospects.
Jones was called up by the Mariners last August. He hit .246 with two home runs in 65 at-bats. He’s expected to compete for a starting job in Seattle’s outfield this spring.
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.
Earlier this offseason, the Orioles traded shortstop Miguel Tejada to the Astros for five younger players.
Tags: adam jones, erik bedard