Quick Hits: Maddux, Maine, Jackson, Darvish

The Orioles officially announced that they’ll name Dan Duquette their executive VP of baseball operations tomorrow. While that front office change was expected, the Twins’ decision to replace Bill Smith with Terry Ryan was most certainly not. Here are some notes from around MLB on yet another busy day for front office movement… 

• The Cubs will interview Rangers pitching coach Mike Maddux for their managerial opening Wednesday, according to reporters, including MLB.com’s Carrie Muskat (on Twitter). Maddux withdrew from Boston’s managerial search for family reasons.
• ESPN.com’s Keith Law explores the middle infield market and warns potential suitors that Willie Bloomquist, Alex Gonzalez and Yuniesky Betancourt may disappoint in 2012. MLBTR has examined the market for shortstops and second basemen in recent weeks.
• John Maine feels healthy and intends to pitch in 2012, according to Andy Martino of the New York Daily News (Twitter link).
• The Yankees have had preliminary discussions with agent Scott Boras about free agent starter Edwin Jackson, according to George A. King III of the New York Post.
• Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports explains that the upcoming collective bargaining agreement relates to the market for starting pitching, since teams aren’t likely to commit tens of millions to players before the details of the CBA become clear. Morosi also reports it’s likely, but not definite that Yu Darvish will be posted this offseason.
• Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. has told clubs and agents he intends to be proactive this winter, according to ESPN.com’s Jayson Stark (on Twitter). Stark and others have reported that the Phils are currently pushing to sign Ryan Madson.
• Jim Callis of Baseball America looks back at the drafted players who fell furthest because of signability questions.