SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Though early November isn't exactly a time for bustling baseball moves, Orioles executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette was encouraged with how this year's General Managers Meetings turned out.
"We had a couple trade conversations," Duquette said Wednesday afternoon of the team's search for corner-outfield help. "We are trying to see if we match up with somebody. We've got a couple more scheduled later today."
Baltimore's top priority, adding a left-handed-hitting outfielder or two, isn't imminent by any means. But Duquette, who expressed optimism that the O's would also be able to add catching depth -- there are a few free-agent options they like -- felt like he had laid some groundwork in Arizona.
"We are getting quite a bit of work done," Duquette said. "It's not early to figure out who you are compatible with and where your needs match up [with other teams]. ... It's kind of like a mosaic, all these little pieces you keep adding. It helps to make your team decisions."

Worth noting
• There haven't been any new developments with Mark Trumbo, to whom the Orioles extended a qualifying offer and will try to retain. Duquette said the O's are trying to work out a deal with the outfielder within the exclusive window.
• Chris Davis had a follow-up on his left hand, which bothered him all season. Duquette said both Davis and Joey Rickard are expected to be a full go in Spring Training.
• Asked if Caleb Joseph would be the team's starter if the Orioles don't add any catching depth, Duquette said: "Yeah -- well, I don't really look at it that way. I just look at getting the club as much depth as we can and we can decide later."
• With the Arizona Fall League a short drive away, Duquette was among numerous GMs who went to go watch some of their young prospects play. He was in attendance on Wednesday with O's arms Stefan Crichton and Tanner Scott among those slated to pitch.
• Duquette was also honored at the Meetings, as he was presented Wednesday with MLB's John Schuerholz Meritorious Service Award for 15 years as a GM.