Will James McCann return to Orioles? | MAILBAG

Question: Do you think James McCann’s time with the Orioles is done? Is René Pinto a serious replacement option? I’ll certainly miss McCann’s leadership qualities if he is gone. From: Dan Klein, New York, NY

Answer: Dan, I think there is still a chance that James McCann re-signs with the Orioles, but if another team, particularly a contender, offers him a multi-year contract, I think he’d sign with them.

I hope that McCann stays with the Orioles, and as for René Pinto, whom the Orioles claimed on waivers from Tampa Bay, I think he’s looked upon more as insurance. I think Travis d’Arnaud, who was most recently with Atlanta, might be an interesting option as the backup catcher if McCann doesn’t stay.

Question: Do you believe the Orioles should consider Trevor Bauer during free agency? He apparently still has a lot of gas in the tank. He would definitely save the Orioles a lot of money on a free-agent pitcher. What do you think? From: Ricky Shaw, North Carolina

 Answer: Ricky, I don’t think the Orioles should consider Trevor Bauer. His issues could make him a disruptive force in the clubhouse. There’s a very good reason he remains a free agent, and that’s because as desperate as teams are for pitching, they’re afraid of putting him into their clubhouses.

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.