Orioles rumors: Baltimore searching for backup catcher

The Baltimore Orioles have joined the ranks of those on the prowl for catching depth, specifically hoping to find a "defensive-minded" backstop with some minor-league options remaining, reports Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun.

O's content with pitching

Baltimore seems happy to move forward without adding any more arms, per report.

The O's are set with Matt Wieters behind the plate in the starting gig, but they are concerned that current backup Taylor Teagarden -- who missed 86 games last year with a back injury -- won't be able to get through the season without injury.

The Orioles' options on the market are very slim, even before you take into account that the Rays, Pirates, and Phillies are also in the hunt for a backup backstop. Veteran Rockies catcher Ramon Hernandez is believed to be the guy most available at the moment, but he definitely does not fit the description of what the Orioles are seeking.

Baltimore has a few in-house options that could take on the third-string role if they cannot find anyone outside the organization. Luis Exposito -- who is on the 40-man roster -- is the most likely candidate to fill in should Teagarden go down, but spring NRIs Luis Martinez and Chris Robinson could get the call as well. Connolly notes that Exposito has "not been impressive" behind the dish this spring.

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