Orioles, Phillies Close to Deal for Joe Blanton

The Baltimore Orioles are close to acquiring right-hander Joe Blanton from the Philadelphia Phillies, reports Bob Brookover of the Philly Inquirer:

O's-Phils still talking Blanton and appears to be close. Deal would be for secondary prospect from O's.

— Bob Brookover (@brookob) July 31, 2012

Rumored to be on life support late this morning, Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun reports that discussions between the Orioles and Phillies re-opened in the past hour and are gaining steam:

Blanton to #Orioles is gaining steam again. #Phillies coming off $3M demands. One source said wouldnt b surprised if Os do it/nothing else

— Dan Connolly (@danconnollysun) July 31, 2012

Talks hit a snag this morning when the Phillies refused to budge on forcing the Orioles to pay Blanton's remaining $3 million in salary. Philadelphia has apparently loosened their stance and are willing to take on some salary, but the talks are still being held up by money.

With the trade deadline now less than two hours away, negotiations between the two teams may very well go right up to 4 PM EST.

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Will the Orioles complete a deal for Blanton?

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