Saturday Bird Droppings

Sources: Orioles closing in on a deal for Nelson Cruz | CBSSports.com
There are still some issues to be worked out, according to Jon Heyman, but a deal could happen soon.

Steve Melewski: A look at one potential guideline for a J.J. Hardy contract extension
Comparing Hardy to Jhonny Peralta and his recent four year, $52M contract. Would you extend Hardy with that deal?

The 'Plan' all along for the O's - Jayson Stark Blog - ESPN
Good line from Duquette at the bottom. "[A] wry smile formed on Duquette’s face when one of his media admirers asked him Thursday how difficult a winter he’d just been through. 'You mean the snow?' Duquette quipped. 'Oh. You mean the cold.'"

An Expert's Guide To Orioles Spring Training | Baltimore Sports Report
Someone was asking about spring training the other day. I've never been , but here is a guide written by a resident of the area.

Orioles choice is clear: They need Morales | Comcast SportsNet Baltimore
Rich Dubroff is thinks Morales is the best choice. As do I, Rich.

Orioles Need To Covet Second Round Draft Pick | Baltimore Sports Report
I wrote that the O's should give up the second round pick. Here is an alternate view.

Camden Depot: It's Time to End the Punishment for Signing Free Agents
A look at the compensation process, and the assertion that it should be changed. Why should players be punished for their performance?

Today is the birthday of former Orioles Steve Barber, Ryne Duren, Ramon Nivar, and John Halama.