Orioles sign Darren O'Day to 4-year, $31 million deal

The Orioles have agreed to bring back reliever Darren O'Day on a four-year, $31 million deal, as first reported by FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal. The deal, which was reportedly held up by a few language obstacles, is now simply pending a physical

Multiple reports indicated O'Day was going to choose between the Orioles and Nationals, who have expressed interest in upgrading their bullpen. The Braves and Dodgers were also thought to be in the mix, but since O'Day's wife works in Washington, D.C., some felt he would ultimately pick the Nationals.

O'Day, 33, has been a key part of the Orioles' bullpen over the last few seasons. In 2015, he pitched to a 1.52 ERA and 3.49 FIP over 65.1 innings. He has proven to be successful against both right and left-handed batters and will likely serve as a setup man and pitch in the eighth inning for Baltimore.

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick first noted last week O'Day would likely receive a four-year deal worth between $30 and $34 million.

David Robertson and Andrew Miller were the only two relievers to receive four-year deals last winter, and O'Day's deal is notable since the Orioles are not known for signing players over four years, according to The Baltimore Sun's Eduardo Encina.

Ubaldo Jimenez is the only other player to ever receive a four-year deal from the Orioles, indicating the club made it a priority to re-sign O'Day this winter.

The market for relievers will likely pickup heading into the Winter Meetings and following the O'Day deal.