Report: Orioles interested in Liriano, Pomeranz
The Baltimore Orioles lead the American League East and they haven't started a left-handed pitcher yet this season.
With that in mind, MLB Network's Jon Morosi reports the Orioles are interested in acquiring Francisco Liriano from the Pittsburgh Pirates, or Drew Pomeranz from the San Diego Padres.
While Pittsburgh says it remains focused on battling for a playoff berth, the Padres aren't in the same boat, as they made it clear they're sellers when they sent right-hander James Shields to the Chicago White Sox.
The Pirates sit 13 1/2 games back of the division-leading Chicago Cubs, and 4 1/2 games back of a wild card spot.
Liriano has struggled this season, and becomes a free agent in 2018, which could lower his stock. This year, he's 4-7 with a 5.03 ERA in 13 starts, while notching 74 strikeouts.
His biggest problem has been walks, as he's surrendered a major league-leading 46 in 73 1/3 innings. Last season he gave up 70 walks in 186 2/3 innings.
Pomeranz, on the other hand, has been effective on a below-average team. His his 6-7 record and 3.00 ERA in 14 starts is mired by the fact San Diego can't contain the baseball, as the Padres have 52 errors and a .981 fielding percentage, both good for third-worst in the majors.