Throughout the offseason, we'll be taking a look at the top news and rumors from the Hot Stove League.
THE RUMOR: The Pirates are listening to trade offers for second baseman Neil Walker and have engaged in discussions with the Orioles.
MORE: Top five free-agent second basemen | Mets talking with Ben Zobrist
REPORTED BY: Triblive.com and The Baltimore Sun.
THE DETAILS: The Orioles' current second baseman is 24-year-old Jonathan Schoop, so Baltimore views Walker as a potential replacement at first base should free agent Chris Davis leave. Walker could also serve as the team's designated hitter and fill in at second or third base.
LAST SEASON: Walker, who made $8 million last season and projects to make close to $10 million in his final year of arbitration eligibility before becoming a free agent after the 2016 season, had a .269/.328/.756 slash line with 16 home runs and 77 RBIs last season. He also drew 44 walks and stole four bases.
OUR TAKE: Walker is an interesting trade option for a team needing a second baseman. He's still relatively young (30), so having him switch to designated hitter or first base doesn't make sense at this time. Walker has played first base in just 10 games as a professional, all in the minor leagues. The Orioles have a number of young players in the infield (Schoop, third baseman Manny Machado and first baseman Christian Walker), which makes this seem like a forced move by Baltimore. Teams like the Mets and Yankees, who can offer young talent and an everyday spot for Walker at second base, make more sense as trade partners.