"The Diamondbacks might not want to part with a top prospect, but General Manager Kevin Towers appears to have the financial flexibility to consider taking on salary from a team looking to dump payroll.

"I think ownership is willing to add to make this club better, and if we're able to financially add to the ballclub without giving up our inventory, that would be (ideal) for us," Towers said. "Sometimes there's decent players out there and teams are just looking for cash relief."

One club that could fit the description is the Baltimore Orioles, who have two veteran right-handers, Koji Uehara and closer Kevin Gregg.

Uehara entered Thursday with a 1.80 ERA and a $4 million option for 2012 that vests with 14 more appearances. Gregg is owed $5.8 million next year but might be more easily attainable because he hasn't been as effective (3.69 ERA).

The Oakland A's might also be looking to shed payroll, although they are not expected to part with right-hander Grant Balfour.

"I'm not saying a huge contract," Towers said, "but to add an experienced player that will make us better temporarily and hopefully somebody that we can retain next year and not have to give up any of our inventory.""