Report: Orioles yet to discuss extensions with Jones, Machado

If the Baltimore Orioles are going to extend their two biggest stars in Adam Jones and Manny Machado, it's likely not going to happen anytime soon.

The offseason is now several weeks old, but according to Roch Kubatko of MASN, Baltimore's focus these days is on completing other transactions - including finding trade partners, pursuing free-agent targets, and finalizing the 2018 coaching staff - rather than trying to extend either of its two stars.

While that doesn't necessarily mean extension talks for one or both of Machado and Jones are off the table completely - the Orioles are expected to reach out to Machado at some point, Kubatko reports - it doesn't seem like the Orioles are in a rush to start negotiations with either player.

"We've been focused on the trade possibilities and adding some players and also working on what we're going to have to pay some of the players in the arbitration process," general manager Dan Duquette told Kubatko, without specifically mentioning either of his pending free agents. "That's been the focus of our work the last couple of weeks. Once we get our focus a little clearer on those issues, we can look at some other ones."

The futures of Jones and Machado in Baltimore are going to be hot topics in the Charm City until resolutions are reached, one way or another. Both players are also set to take up a large chunk of the Orioles' 2018 payroll, regardless of whether extensions are reached.

Despite an off-year at the plate in 2017, Machado is projected by MLB Trade Rumors to make $17.3-million in arbitration, with even more riches awaiting him in next year's star-studded free-agent class. Jones, who's about to enter his 11th season with the Orioles, will earn $17 million in the final season of an $85.5-million deal signed in 2012.

The Orioles - who are coming off their first last-place finish since 2011 - have already been linked to several free-agent starting pitchers in the offseason's early days, including Alex Cobb, Lance Lynn, and Tyler Chatwood.

Baltimore has also reportedly already spoken with at least two clubs about potential trades for All-Star closer Zach Britton, who's also one year away from free agency.