The scenario the Seattle Mariners knew was likely became a little more so Thursday, when the Baltimore Orioles said their current plans are to open the 2008 season with left-hander Erik Bedard as their ace. ?The likelihood of doing something prior to 2008 is very, very low in my estimation,? Orioles general manager Andy MacPhail told the Baltimore Sun. While that might be meant to drive offers up, MacPhail has been adamant for months that Bedard ? a 28-year-old under contract for another two years ? would only be dealt if an offer was overwhelming. The Mariners, Blue Jays, Reds and others have tried without success and the offseason auction of three top pitchers ? Bedard, Minnesota?s Johan Santana and Oakland?s Dan Haren ? has produced just one trade.