Given the context of the Baltimore Orioles’ off-season strategy, it is likely that they would be interested in bolstering their rotation by targeting an ace pitcher via trade. The Orioles have a strong young core, particularly in their lineup, and while they have some promising pitchers, their starting rotation could benefit from a true ace to push them over the top in the American League East. Historically, the Orioles have been active in seeking out trades to improve their roster, especially as they move closer to championship contention.
Let’s dive into several factors that might influence the Orioles’ pursuit of an ace, some potential trade targets, and the trade dynamics that could play out.
The Orioles’ Current Roster
The Orioles entered the 2024 season as a team in transition, moving from a rebuilding phase into true contention for the first time in several years. They finished the 2024 regular season with a strong performance, thanks to their emerging young talents like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and their burgeoning pitching staff. However, their rotation still lacks an established ace, which could be a key factor in making a deep postseason run.
The Current Starting Rotation
Baltimore’s pitching staff showed improvement in 2024, with a mix of experienced pitchers and promising youngsters. The rotation featured names like:
- Kyle Gibson – A veteran who provided stability in the rotation.
- Grayson Rodriguez – A highly touted prospect who showed flashes of his potential but needs consistency.
- Dean Kremer – Another young arm who had some success in 2024.
- Tyler Wells – A solid contributor who filled out the back end of the rotation.
Despite the decent depth, the Orioles lack a true ace, a pitcher capable of dominating in big-game situations. A top-of-the-rotation starter could be what the Orioles need to push them from a playoff contender to a genuine World Series contender.
The Need for an Ace
An ace is typically defined as a pitcher who can reliably take the mound and dominate, often with the ability to pitch deep into games and neutralize high-level lineups. In a highly competitive division like the AL East, where the Orioles are contending with teams like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays, an ace pitcher could make the difference in a tight playoff race.
In 2024, the Orioles finished 4th in team ERA in the AL but only 18th in starting pitcher ERA. Their bullpen was one of the best in baseball, which helped them cover up some of the gaps in their starting rotation. However, relying on the bullpen too much during the long haul of a playoff series, particularly in the postseason, could be a disadvantage. An ace would give the Orioles a reliable arm to front their rotation and lessen the pressure on the bullpen.
Potential Trade Targets
When looking for an ace, the Orioles will likely need to target a player from a team that is either rebuilding or looking to move a top starter for a package of young talent. Here are a few potential candidates that could be on the trade block:
1. Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels)
While this may seem like a long shot, the Orioles could potentially target Shohei Ohtani if the Angels decide to move him. Ohtani is an elite pitcher and hitter, and while he is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents in 2024, the Orioles could attempt to trade for him in the hopes of securing his services before he hits free agency. However, this would require a huge trade package and would be very expensive.
Ohtani could fit well with the Orioles’ roster, providing not only an ace but also a potent bat in the lineup. However, the Orioles would have to outbid other suitors, which could make this pursuit unlikely but certainly an exciting option.
2. Corbin Burnes (Milwaukee Brewers)
Corbin Burnes is a pitcher that could immediately transform the Orioles’ rotation. A former Cy Young winner, Burnes has been a dominant force for the Milwaukee Brewers. His ability to get strikeouts, manage innings, and perform in high-pressure situations makes him a clear target for teams like the Orioles looking for a front-line starter.
The Brewers may be inclined to trade Burnes due to their financial situation and the fact that Burnes is entering his final years of team control before hitting free agency. If the Orioles were able to package a group of their top young prospects, they could make a compelling case for acquiring Burnes.
3. Blake Snell (San Diego Padres)
Blake Snell, the 2023 NL Cy Young Award winner, is another potential ace the Orioles could target. Snell has had a resurgence in recent seasons, and while he is a bit inconsistent at times, his high ceiling and postseason pedigree make him an intriguing option. The Padres are looking to shed payroll, and Snell is entering his free-agent season, making him a potential trade candidate.
The Orioles could offer a package of younger talent and position players to acquire Snell, particularly if the Padres are looking to rebuild or reallocate resources to other areas of their roster.
4. Max Fried (Atlanta Braves)
Max Fried is a well-established ace for the Atlanta Braves and one of the top left-handed pitchers in the game. With the Braves locked into a long-term window of contention, they may look to move Fried if they need to make adjustments elsewhere on their roster. Fried’s ability to handle big moments in the postseason would be a significant asset for the Orioles, especially with their young, untested pitching staff.
However, Fried would come with a hefty price tag, as he’s one of the premier pitchers in the league and will be a free agent in a few seasons. Still, with the Orioles’ stocked farm system, a trade package could be put together to acquire him.
5. Lucas Giolito (Chicago White Sox)
While not exactly an “ace,” Lucas Giolito has the ability to be a reliable front-line starter. The White Sox are in rebuilding mode, and Giolito, whose contract is expiring, could be available for the right price. His experience in the AL and ability to eat innings would help the Orioles as they look to solidify their rotation for a deep playoff push.
The Trade Dynamics
The Orioles’ farm system is one of the best in the league, which gives them a significant trade advantage. Their wealth of prospects includes players like:
- Gunnar Henderson – A top-tier prospect who could be the centerpiece of a trade for an elite pitcher.
- Grayson Rodriguez – A highly regarded pitching prospect who could be moved as part of a deal.
- Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser – Both top prospects who could draw interest from rebuilding teams.
The Orioles would need to part with a combination of these players, especially for higher-end targets like Burnes or Fried. The Orioles also have payroll flexibility, which would be crucial in taking on any salary associated with acquiring an ace.
However, they would need to be cautious about giving up too much of their young core. While acquiring an ace could propel them into serious contention, mortgaging the future for a single player is a risky proposition.
