Report: Orioles open to trading Matusz, willing to include cash

The Baltimore Orioles have reportedly explored the possibility of dealing left-handed pitcher Brian Matusz and would be willing to absorb a portion of his salary in an effort to do so.

Matusz, who's expected to reclaim his role in Baltimore's bullpen after avoiding arbitration with a one-year, $3.2-million deal this winter, is set to become a free agent at the end of next season.

The New York Mets are among several teams who might have interest in Matusz after losing left-handed reliever Josh Edgin this week to Tommy John surgery. Matusz was recently scouted by the Mets, according to the New York Post, though it's unclear if the club has engaged the Orioles regarding a potential deal. 

For their part, the Orioles remain open to trading the 27-year-old Matusz, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports, and would be willing to include cash to help offset this year's salary. 

The former starter pitched to a career-high 9.2 K/9 over 63 relief appearances in 2014.