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Orioles pushing for new deal with Nelson Cruz

By Evan Massey

Oct 5, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) against the Detroit Tigers during game three of the 2014 ALDS baseball playoff game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 5, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) against the Detroit Tigers during game three of the 2014 ALDS baseball playoff game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Baltimore Orioles are set to begin their ALCS series against the Kansas City Royals tomorrow night, but they are getting some contract extension work done before the series begins. Baltimore signed J.J. Hardy to a new contract, and they are now beginning to push for a new deal with star outfielder Nelson Cruz. Cruz has been one of the main reasons that the Orioles are in the position that they currently in, and they want to keep him around as long as they can.

Cruz played in 159 regular season games with the Orioles this season, compiling a batting average of .271 while smacking 40 home runs out and driving in 108 runs. At 34 years of age he is beginning to reach the end of his career, but he still has some good baseball left in him. The Orioles would be wise to sign him to a two or three year deal, and keep him around to help lead them as long as he can.

There have been no reports as to how much money the Orioles would have to give Nelson to lock him up to a new deal, but it would be worth it. Cruz has been the definition of clutch for the Orioles this season, and they need him for leadership as well. Locking him up would be the right decision for the Orioles, and they should get it done as soon as possible.

It will be intriguing to hear about the numbers that the two sides are talking, and how many years as well. Both sides want to get something done, so it should happen at some point in the near future. Don’t expect to see Cruz playing for a team other than the Orioles anytime soon.

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