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MLB Rumors: Baltimore Orioles discussing two year $24 million deal with Dexter Fowler

By Dave Stevenson

Aug 23, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) hits a home run during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 23, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) hits a home run during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly discussing a two-year deal worth $24 million with free agent outfielder Dexter Fowler

The Baltimore Orioles have been quite active on the free agent market this offseason. They have re-signed their own free agents first baseman Chris Davis, relief pitcher Darren O’Day, and catcher Matt Wieters. Baltimore recently reportedly added starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo on Saturday. They aren’t done yet, as they are still interested in pursuing outfielder Dexter Fowler. The two sides have been discussing a two-year deal with an option that could be worth $24 million over the first two years.

Kubatko noted that the option will most likely be a club option as opposed to a player option.

The Orioles would fill several holes by signing Dexter Fowler. First of all, it would give them a strong outfield. Their outfield already features center fielder Adam Jones and corner outfielder Hyun-Soo Kim. Fowler would give them a great defensive outfield, as Fowler is capable of playing either of the corner outfield spots and could even spell Adam Jones from time to time.

Secondly, Fowler would give the Orioles an excellent top of the order option. Fowler had a .346 OBP in 2015 and is capable of stealing bases. He’d be a great option in front of third baseman Manny Machado, Jones, Davis, and designated hitter Mark Trumbo.

Thirdly, Dexter Fowler could do quite well at Camden Yards. Camden Yards is widely known for being a hitter friendly park, particularly to those who have home run power and gap power. Fowler had 17 home runs in 2015 and it’s likely that playing half of his games at Camden Yards could propel him to 20 home runs. He also added 29 doubles and eight triples for the Cubs in 2015. Having that kind of speed and power at the top of the lineup could help the Orioles overcome their rotation issues.

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