Showalter 'more confident' about re-signing Cruz than he was at end of season

Orioles manager Buck Showalter is growing increasingly confident that Nelson Cruz will be back in Baltimore next season:

Cruz, who declined the Orioles' one-year, $15.3-million qualifying offer, is arguably the biggest bat available on the free-agent market after he slugged 40 homers last season.

Cruz also reportedly turned down a three-year offer from the O's prior to free agency and is seeking a four-year deal.

The Orioles are also busy negotiating a new contract with outfielder Nick Markakis.