MLB Rumors: Surprise Justin Verlander suitor enters chat at 11th hour

Mets ace Justin Verlander could be on the move at the MLB trade deadline and one AL East contender is now rumored to be involved.

Since the Mets traded Max Scherzer to the Rangers, the fate of Justin Verlander has been hanging in the balance. Would New York commit to short-term winning and keep the ace in the Big Apple? Or would Billy Eppler look to cash in even further by moving on Verlander as well?

The answer to those questions is still very much up in the air, but potential suitors have their ears perked up regardless.

The Dodgers have been named as a favorite to bring in Verlander but Jon Morosi of MLB Network floated another option with World Series aspirations and attractive prospects to offer.

The Baltimore Orioles have entered the chat.

MLB Rumors: Surprise Justin Verlander suitor enters chat at 11th hour

“The Orioles are one team to watch on Justin Verlander,” Morosi tweeted. “Baltimore has the prospects to be involved in any trade.”

It’s not exactly clear if Morosi is basing that tweet on sources saying the Orioles are interested in Verlander or if the health of their farm system simply makes them a potential player.

Verlander has a no-trade clause, so he can reject a move to any destination he doesn’t deem viable.

Baltimore has a few things going for them. First, they’ve got a competitive squad, passionate fans and are sitting first place in the AL East. They’re ahead of schedule, but adding someone like Verlander would be the ultimate proof they’re all-in on winning now.

Also, Verlander apparently isn’t eager to leave NYC. Baltimore is a whole lot closer to New York than Los Angeles if it were to come down to the Dodgers and Orioles.