Report: Orioles have discussed Moustakas internally

The Baltimore Orioles possess one of the top third basemen in baseball with Manny Machado, but with rumors swirling about his potential future with the club, it appears they're looking for his possible replacement.

Baltimore has discussed acquiring free-agent third baseman Mike Moustakas internally, weighing his pros and cons, reports Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports.

With Machado destined for free agency at season's end and the Orioles fielding trade interest for the three-time All-Star from multiple clubs, including the persistent Arizona Diamondbacks, Moustakas could take over.

While the Orioles like the idea of adding a left-handed bat such as Moustakas to their heavy right-handed hitting lineup, some in the team's front office are not impressed by his career .305 on-base percentage, Kubatko adds.

Moustakas is coming off a career year where he belted 38 home runs and drove in 85 for the Kansas City Royals across 148 games. He missed all but 27 games in 2016 after tearing the ACL in his right knee.

The 29-year-old is one of the top free agents available at third base, along with Todd Frazier. He received some interest from the Los Angeles Angels before they signed Zack Cozart, and has also been linked to the Royals and New York Mets.