Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly open to trading closer Jim Johnson. In fact, the team is currently taking offers with several Major League Baseball teams that are already showing plenty of interest. One team in particular is the Los Angeles Dodgers, although I’m rather confident they will not deal for him considering they already have Kenley Jansen.
The Orioles must be convinced they will get something good for Johnson in return. Otherwise, what’s the point of shopping one of the best closers in the game? I understand $10 million is a lot for one player, which is what Johnson is expected to make next season. With that being said, the price tag is worth the player when he consistently closes the door on teams in the ninth inning.
It’s true that Johnson did blow nine saves in 2013, which was by far the most in his career. However, he also saved a Major League-high 50 games this past season. That means he has saved 101 games in two years, the most by any closer in the big leagues over that span.
If anything, there is a good chance Baltimore simply wants to see what’s available to them on the trade market for a player of Johnson’s talent. On the other hand, sources indicate that the trade talks are heating up with Baltimore determined to deal the right-hander.
I personally think it’s foolish for the Orioles to even consider trading Johnson. At this point, it makes way more sense for them to sign him to a long-term deal in order to have the best closer in the competitive American League East division.
