Britton available for trade

BALTIMORE — In laying out the steps that the Orioles will need to take to return to competitiveness after Wednesday’s trade of All-Star shortstop Manny Machado to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Executive Vice President Dan Duquette said the first would be to try and swap out the rest of their veteran players who can help other clubs for prospects.

The next step on that front will be to try to trade closer Zach Britton.

“Clubs have become more interested in Zach as he has regained his velocity and particularly, the sink and movement on his pitch,” Duquette said. “He had a really good week this past week, so clubs have renewed their interest in Zach. We engaged other clubs on that front, but we’re not as far down the road in the process, and I think that’s partly because clubs were waiting to see how Zach was throwing, and exactly what role he could help on a pennant-contending team.

“I think Zach has re-established himself with his stuff as one of the top closers in the league. Now, we can turn our attention toward that.”

Britton, who had offseason surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles in December and was back in the majors by mid-June, struggled some early with his velocity and command of his sinker. But over his last seven outings, Britton hasn’t allowed a run and has struck out six against six baserunners. His fastball has averaged 95.4 mph and topped out at 97 mph.