I want to hear what you guys think about the continued rumors that the O's are pursuing Mike Cameron. A couple days ago, The Washington Post reported that the Orioles are "convinced" they can land Cameron still, after failing to do so during the spring. From the article:
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Orioles relievers John Parrish and Jorge Julio could be used to acquire a center fielder.
Now, obviously, if you can acquire Mike Cameron for John Parrish, you do it. You're talking plus-plus defense in center field and yet another power bat (and moving to a hitter's park for the first time in forever, to boot) in exchange for a mediocre lefty reliever/swingman.
Julio is also not someone I would hold dearly if I could get Mike Cameron for him. I like Julio, more in the setup role than I did as the closer, but he's a replaceable part.
If they were to acquire Cameron, you're getting another guy on the wrong side of 30 with some wrist problems. But you still have a tremendous center fielder that can produce runs if he's healthy, and he's a guy who can steal 20 or so bags still.
My question is (if a deal were to go through, so it's a theoretical question): Would the club be giving up too quickly on Luis Matos? Though Cameron strikes out a lot, he also walks a good amount as well. If healthy, Matos would hit for a higher average, with likely less power and a worse on-base percentage. However, he himself is a plus center fielder with some pop and some speed, and he's six years younger.
What say you? Is Mike Cameron worth a bullpen arm (or two) to this year's club over Matos?