The Orioles, after months of deliberating, have signed veteran first baseman Derrek Lee to a one-year deal. The Orioles were in talks with both Lee and Adam LaRoche, but it looks as if LaRoche will join the crosstown Nationals now. Lee hit .260 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs in 148 games. Lee, 35, will take over at first base and provide a veteran leadership for the young Orioles.
The Lee signing doesn't put them into contention, but it gives them a reliable corner infielder who still could hit 20+ home runs and carry a respectable average. He will be going to the always competitive AL East, which could present problems for him.