The Baltimore Orioles pursued Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton a few weeks back, but talks sputtered and now the O’s are more focused on starting pitchers, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports:

Add #Orioles to teams that have pursued JUpton. Strong interest a few weeks back, but talks sputtered. Team seemingly more focused on SPs.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 8, 2013

The Orioles have also been tied to Diamondbacks outfielder Jason Kubel. After Arizona signed free agent outfielder Cody Ross earlier this offseason, it's been speculated that the club will trade one of Kubel or Upton before the end of the winter.

It shouldn’t be surprising to see the Orioles showing interest in Upton, according to Eduardo Encina of The Baltimore Sun, who adds that the team felt the Diamondbacks were asking too much for their young slugger.

The Orioles have been seeking an impact bat throughout the offseason, but as of yet general manager Dan Duquette has been unable to come up with anything.

With their attention turned back to starting pitching, the Orioles will likely be focused on free agent Joe Saunders. The left-hander has been tied to Baltimore and has said that his top choice is re-signing with the O’s.