ESPN.COM - Orioles Add Arms To Woeful Pen

In an unexpected move, the Baltimore Orioles added 5 relievers to their beleaguered bullpen. Club sources say that the pitchers were acquired via free agency and trades.

LaTroy Hawkins was acquired from the Colorado Rockies for outfielder Nick Markakis. Recent first round draft pick Matt Weiters was dealt to the San Fransisco Giants for Steve Kline. Steve Reed, Mike DeJean and Gregg Olsen were also signed to bolster the pen.

"We want the fans to know that we haven't given up on the season" said Orioles General Manager Mike Flanagan. "I personally know all of the guys coming in, they've all been in the organization in the past and they know what we mean when we talk about the Oriole Way" he added.

When reached by phone, Reed said "yeah, I was surprised when they contacted me. I didn't pitch well when I was there last time, and I haven't thrown a pitch since 2005. I've mainly been playing golf and drinking beer, but I can probably throw as well as some of the guys they have over there now."

Flanagan said that Hawkins, Reed, Kline and DeJean will alternate as set-up guys, while Olsen will split time with Chris Ray as closer. "He [Olsen] hasn't pitched in a long time, so he's good and rested" stated Flanagan.

To make room for the new arms, the Orioles released outfielders Jay Gibbons and Corey Patterson, utility players Chris Gomez and Freddy Bynum and catcher Alberto Castillo. Flanagan said "we're going with 16 pitchers and 9 position players. Kevin Millar is penciled in as the first baseman, and we'll have an outfield of Jay Payton, Aubrey Huff and, uh...maybe one of the pitchers. We're hoping noone gets injured."