Report: Orioles still pursuing Gallardo, showing interest in Simon

The Baltimore Orioles, who acquired depth starter Odrisamer Despaigne from the San Diego Padres on Thursday, could be looking to upgrade their rotation further.

Baltimore remains interested in free-agent righty Yovani Gallardo and is also considering veteran right-hander Alfredo Simon, major-league sources told FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.

Draft-pick compensation linked to Gallardo remains an issue for Orioles general manager Dan Duquette, sources told Rosenthal. Duquette recently told MLB Network Radio he would have a hard time parting with his No. 14 pick in this year's draft in order to sign the former Texas Ranger.

Simon, famous for his eephus pitch, began his career in Baltimore in 2008, throwing four seasons for the Orioles before being claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Reds prior to the 2012 campaign. The 34-year-old went 13-12 with a lofty 5.05 ERA in 31 starts for the Detroit Tigers last year.

(Courtesy: MLB.com)

The Baltimore Sun's Eduardo A. Encina also reported Thursday the club is taking a look at two-time National League Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum to fill its pitching void. The former San Francisco Giants ace is expected to hold a showcase for interested clubs in the coming weeks, and, like Simon, he's not attached to draft-pick compensation.