Are Orioles looking for alternatives at 3rd with Westburg out? | MAILBAG

Question: Do you believe that there is any chance that the Orioles will contemplate looking for an external addition, like Nolan Arenado or someone else, to replace Jordan Westburg? Arenado would bring veteran leadership and still sound defense in spite of his declining offense. From: Jean Roussy

Answer: Jean, I think that the Orioles are looking for additional options at third base now that they know Westburg is lost for the season. It’s very early for teams to be engaged in trade talks, and I think that they could try to find someone else.

I would be very surprised if Nolan Arenado were available now. Arizona still has postseason aspirations, and despite a sub-.500 record, I don’t think they’re close to becoming sellers. That may be two months away.

Question: We haven’t heard a word about Ryan Mountcastle since he was injured. Have there been any updates? Is he with the team? What on earth is going on? Would just love to know if he’s coming back or injured so badly that he won’t be coming back. From: Jerri St. John, Jessup, Maryland

Answer: Jerri, Mountcastle is on the 60-day injured list with a broken left foot. He’s not eligible to return until June 12^th and, according to Mike Elias’ update on Friday, he’s far from being ready to play. Elias estimates Mountcastle’s return could come late in June or in July.

He is not traveling with the team. He’s rehabbing in Sarasota. Perhaps we’ll see him this week in St. Petersburg and get a further update.

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.