Orioles, Dexter Fowler discussing two-year, $24 million deal

After signing Yovani Gallardo on Saturday, the Orioles are discussing a two-year, $24 million deal with free agent outfielder Dexter Fowler, according to MASN's Roch Kubtako.

The deal being considered would also reportedly include a club option.

Although it appears Baltimore has formally made an offer, it is unclear whether or not the two sides are close to reaching a deal, Kubatko adds. It was reported earlier this week the Orioles were expected to sign both Gallardo and Fowler, free agents who received and rejected qualifying offers.

Now that the organization addressed its rotation, it is likely they attempt to add an outfielder. Yoenis Cespedes was thought to be an option before the Orioles signed Chris Davis earlier this winter.

Fowler, 29, is thought to be the best outfielder still on the market. He batted .250/.346/.411 to complement 17 home runs and 46 RBIs with the Cubs last season. Fowler can also routinely steal bases, and adding him to Baltimore's lineup could allow Mark Trumbo to become the club's designated hitter.

Since Fowler gets on base regularly, he could help the Orioles' lineup produce by setting the stage for Manny Machado and Davis.

It remains unclear whether or not the Orioles have an issue with signing multiple free agents who rejected qualifying offers. If the club wants to consider other options, Will Venable and David Murphy will almost certainly cost less than Fowler. However, neither will likely be as productive.

If the Orioles are able to add Fowler to their lineup, they would also lose the No. 28 pick in the draft. But if they value upgrading their roster and offense specifically, adding Fowler could become a goal.