The Baltimore Orioles' search for more outfield pop has led them into talks with the Los Angeles Dodgers about corner outfielder Andre Ethier, according to MASN.com While MASN's Roch Kubatko reports the Orioles are still pursuing Colby Rasmus as their top choice via free agency, they're looking into the possibility of adding L.A.'s lefty.
Ethier's fallen out of favor with the Dodgers because of his inability for most of his career to hit left-handed pitching. While this isn't a major issue for many left-handed hitters who find themselves as halves of successful platoons, Ethier's prohibitive contract lowers his value.
At 33 years old, Ethier has three years left that are locked in at an average of more than $17 million a season, struggling mightily vs. lefties. In 2013, the last season in which he saw significant action against like-handed opponents, Ethier batted just .221 with three home runs and 11 RBI in 160 plate appearances.
He is a tantalizing option against right-handers though; Ethier has hit .304 for his career against righties with 123 home runs.
The negatives can outweigh the positives. In addition to his high price, and struggles against left-handers, Ethier is a net negative with the glove in the outfield.
Rasmus, on the other hand, appears to offer more power, a better chance for positive defense, and checks in at five years Ethier's junior. Last season may allow Baltimore to snag Rasmus on a discount, since he posted a putrid .225 batting average and was limited to 18 home runs.
Additionally the Orioles are reportedly showing a "lower level" of interest in free agent outfielder Nori Aoki, who offers almost nothing in the power department but provides good average, on-base skills and defense.
[MASN]
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