The O's decided not to tender a 2012 offer to outfielder Luke Scott, possibly bringing an end to his tenure in Baltimore.

Scott will now hit the open free agent market, which will be interesting to watch. Scott tore his right labrum last season and missed a significant number of games. Scott could re-sign with the club if the team shows interest in the streaky hitter with power potential.

He reportedly could have made at least $6 million with the Orioles in 2012, but there was no way the Birds could pay him that amount given his recent injury history. Scott's friend, Felix Pie, signed with the Indians Sunday, bringing an end to his time with the Orioles as well.

Scott alternated between being a beloved figure in Baltimore and being one of its most controversial. Scott made comments about President Barack Obama's birth certificate that drew national attention last season. He also made comments about Pie that some viewed as somewhat racist, although no one in the O's clubhouse construed them that way.

Scott arrived in Baltimore in 2007 when the Birds traded All-Star shortstop Miguel Tejada for five players. Scott and Troy Patton are all that remains from that deal and Scott may be a stronger player since that trade than Tejada.

The Birds are also contemplating whether to make an offer to pitcher Brad Bergesen. The pitcher has gone into a major slide during recent seasons and doesn't appear to fit in the team's plans going forward, at least in the starting rotation.

Posted Dec. 12, 2011