MLB Rumors: Five teams that should sign Tim Lincecum

4. Baltimore Orioles

Signing Lincecum would make a lot of sense for the Baltimore Orioles. They might be pushing for a playoff spot and their rotation has been better than expected. However, they could certainly use more depth, especially with their rotation struggling to get through six innings on a consistent basis. Their long relievers currently consist of Vance Worley and T.J. McFarland. Lincecum would be a significant upgrade over both and he would be an excellent spot-start candidate.

There are some concerns though. First of all, how would the now soft-tossing Lincecum do in the American League East, which features sluggers like Jose Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion, David Ortiz, and Evan Longoria? Granted, he wouldn’t have to face Chris Davis, Manny Machado, or Mark Trumbo since they’d be his teammates, but the American League East is still a bit of a murderer’s row for pitchers, especially those who don’t throw hard.

Right now, it’s hard to see how Lincecum fits in with the Orioles. None of their starters are doing horribly. Mike Wright might be the odd man out. But how much better than Wright would Lincecum be at this point? Would he be a big enough upgrade to be worth it? And what happens when Yovani Gallardo returns from the disabled list?

Despite these issues, the Orioles should take a long look at Lincecum.

Next: Houston Astros