BALTIMORE -- The last-place Orioles have had a rough first half of the season, with the past week dominated by the lead-up to Wednesday's trade of superstar shortstop Manny Machado to the Dodgers. As the second half begins, the O's will face the tough task of selling off pieces and trying to engineer a rebuild.
Making matters tougher, of course, is the uncertain state of the front office. Both executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette and manager Buck Showalter have contracts expiring at the end of the year. With plenty of things in flux, here's a look at where the Orioles stand going into the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline.
Current status: Seller
The O's have trailed in the American League East by double digits since May, making this an easy choice as the Trade Deadline nears. They'll be willing to deal any of their pending free agents and will listen in on other players in the coming weeks.
What they are seeking
Infield help, pitching.
The Machado deal highlights the lack of infield depth in the organization and there's no real help on the way. Getting a few infield prospects and pitching with upside -- always an area of need -- could go a long way in helping to accelerate a rebuild.
What they have to offer
Closer Zach Britton, center fielder Adam Jones and reliever Brad Brach are among those who are viable trade candidates.
Possible scenario
Britton seems to be the logical candidate to be traded after Machado, and there's plenty of interest in the lefty around the league. The Astros have long coveted Britton (a deal last July fell through) and are considered to be one of the most aggressive suitors, having sent their Opening Day closer, Ken Giles, to Triple-A last week.