Orioles rumors: Josh Hamilton, Cody Ross

On the hunt for corner-outfield help, the Baltimore Orioles are pursuing both Josh Hamilton and Cody Ross, sources have told Jon Morosi of FOX Sports:

The Baltimore Orioles aren’t content with being one of baseball’s most surprising stories of 2012. This winter, they plan to pursue the biggest free agent hitter: Josh Hamilton. Hamilton is on the Orioles’ list of targets for left field, according to a source with knowledge of the organization’s plans…

Baltimore also has some interest in free-agent outfielder Cody Ross, the source said.

While Hamilton spent most of his time in Texas manning center for the Rangers, the Orioles would bring him on to play left field, as the club already has a Gold Glover in center in Adam Jones.

The biggest hitter on the market this winter, the 31-year-old Hamilton is reportedly seeking a contract in range of seven years and $175 million. The Orioles could have serious issues being a viable bidder for Hamilton if his price tag does indeed run that high. The Orioles had a payroll of $85 million in 2012 and already have nearly $55 million squared away for next year before arbitration.

Ross, also 31, is looking for something in the much more manageable range of a three-year, $25 million deal after putting together a solid season in the outfield for the Red Sox.