Free agency has just begun, but the Orioles have already stuck their necks out when it comes to trying to find the right free agents to turn this team around. The goal is to build around Matt Wieters, as well as Nick Markakis and Brian Roberts. Without Melvin Mora returning this season, the team has some obligations. The corner infield spots, as well as a solid starting pitcher, are the top priority positions that we’ll see figured out before spring training begins.

The most recent rumors have the Orioles interested in some veteran players that they can sign for a small amount of money while the young talent finishes developing in the minors. With Brandon Snyder and Josh Bell predicted to make their debuts sometime in July or August of this year, the O’s need a few players to hold down the fort. After some research, this is what the Orioles seem to be thinking so far.

1. Carlos Delgado, 1B

Delgado, who has been around for quite some time, will come at a relatively cheap price. He has had a few mediocre years with the New York Mets after his outstanding seasons in Toronto, and Baltimore would be more than welcoming to give him some cash to play stopgap. Delgado, who has had seasons of excellent production, would be a great three hole hitter, giving protection to Adam Jones who, with the right moves, will end up batting clean up sooner than most expect.

2. Pedro Feliz, 3B

The Phillies had to cut their losses, one of which was their third baseman. Feliz, who performed well towards the second half of the season, seems to be a reasonable option for the O’s. He won’t end up asking for a ton of money like Chone Figgins, and will provide the defensive stability that the team needs at the hot corner. Fans need to remember that whoever takes over for Melvin Mora at third will only be a temporary option. Josh Bell, the Orioles top minor league prospect, has his eyes set on the majors by July of 2010.

3. Dan Uggla, 2B, 3B

The rumors have been accounted for, but the possibility of a trade for the Marlins’ Dan Uggla is a bit further off than most would like. Uggla, who was an All-Star last season, as well as a participant in the home run derby, is a free agent that has stated firmly that a position change is not in the future. The 2B would rather sign with a team that has more than just a penciled-in plan for him. In turn, the Orioles wouldn’t be smart to trade prospects for Uggla in order to force him to play an unfamiliar position for just a few months. Don’t doubt the fact that the O’s have the money to sign a player of his caliber; It all comes down to being smart about spending, and Uggla just doesn’t make sense.

4. Erik Bedard, SP

Bedard is more familiar with Baltimore than any other free agent. Two years after the trade the O’s made with the Seattle Mariners that involved Bedard for Adam Jones and George Sherrill (who, in turn, was traded for Josh Bell), it is hard to believe that Erik is a free agent that Baltimore is considering as a potential option to bring back. As long as Bedard can avoid injury, which was not the case in Seattle, he could continue to be a dominant powerhouse starting pitcher in the majors. His last season with the O’s, Bedard struck out 221. Some are soon to forget that that season was also injury-shortened; Can anybody imagine what this guy could do with a full season under the pitching staff that the O’s have to offer?

5. Adrian Beltre, 3B

Beltre mimicks the same features as Pedro Feliz, although he may be a bit more pricey. Beltre brings more power, as well as a resume of constant power and production. While his National League stats with the Dodgers tend to be highlighted over his mediocre performance with the Mariners, Beltre is still considered one of the top free agents in the American League. However, as long as the Orioles don’t dive into desperation mode, Beltre may find better luck discussing contract negotiations with other teams.

6. Jermain Dye, LF, 1B

While it is a long shot, Dye’s agent has expressed his client’s interest in moving to first base in order to increase his free agent interest. Dye, who has only played one game at the position in his entire life, may find it hard to attract suitors based solely on his interest to change positions. The Orioles have better options than to throw money at a somewhat-highly touted free agent in order to get him to come to town to play a position he’s not familiar with; Carlos Delgado would be a much better option, based completely on the fact that Delgado has played first base his entire life. While Dye comes across as ideal, the Orioles aren’t looking for a big-time name to stick around town for more than a year or so.

Others:

Prince Fielder- The O’s have enough prospects to trade for the power hitter, but does Andy McPhail really want to do that?

John Lackey- Considered the best starting pitcher in the free agent market, McPhail may see past the hype and realize that Lackey has struggled over the past couple of years. The Orioles can’t afford to sign a bust starting pitcher.

Hank Blalock- A third baseman who has dropped off the radar, the Orioles may want to take a short look. He still has power, but will it be enough to generate the offense they need to protect the developing power of Matt Wieters and Nolan Riemold? Probably not.

Team/Player Photos: Baltimore Orioles v Toronto Blue Jays on Jul 28, 2010

Chone Figgins- Another third base option, although the price range probably isn’t worth the outcome. Figgins, who has found himself in the middle of a power house offense, will most likely see his numbers dip significantly wherever he goes.

Garrett Atkins- A third baseman who the Orioles would consider trading for in the next few days, but would be poised not to. Atkins will most likely become a free agent when the Colorado Rockies release him due to his high salary and his lack of performance. Garrett had a good season two years ago, but has yet to find that power swing. Baltimore would do itself a favor to stray away.