Tension rising inside Orioles management

Last month, ESPN's Jerry Crasnick reported that there was growing tension between Orioles manager Buck Showalter and general manager/executive vice president Dan Duquette. Now, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, the tension has escalated, as Showalter wants a role in personnel decisions.

The team, in the view of at least one club official, cannot continue with the same organizational structure.

"If it doesn’t change, it will be a disaster," the official said.

Any change likely would come internally; both Showalter and Duquette are signed through 2018, Showalter at approximately $3.5 million per season, Duquette at approximately $2 million per season, sources say.

One of the main focal points of this tension was when the Orioles blocked Duquette from pursuing a high ranking position with the Blue Jays last offseason.

Cranisck also lays out other issues that have plagued the organization. From some not liking how much influence minor league pitching development director Rick Peterson has, to frustration over the lack of replacements for Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis.

This situation in Baltimore should make for an interesting offseason, as they'll have to balance the growing tension with addressing the team needs. Chris Davis, Matt Wieters, Wei-Yin Chen, Darren O'Day and Steve Pearce are all slated to become free agents. With there being frustration over the lack of replacements last winter, Duquette will be under close scrutiny to replace those big names this winter in the hopes of avoiding another disappointing season.

The Orioles could be at a turning point for their franchise, and they need to work out this tension so it doesn't affect the long term future of their on the field product.