Baltimore Orioles Could Pursue Three-Time Cy Young Winner in Free Agency

The Baltimore Orioles, an up-and-coming team in Major League Baseball (MLB), are currently navigating a phase of transformation. After years of rebuilding, the team has emerged as a strong contender in the American League (AL) East. The Orioles, under the leadership of manager Brandon Hyde, have shown remarkable improvement, with their young stars and solid organizational depth fueling a promising future. As they seek to elevate their championship aspirations, the team faces a crucial decision this offseason: Should they pursue a proven, high-impact ace to fortify their starting rotation?

One name that has surfaced as a potential target is a three-time Cy Young Award winner, whose free-agent status has the potential to reshape the balance of power in the AL. With the Orioles possessing a combination of financial flexibility, a rising core of talented players, and an intense desire to win now, adding a top-tier pitcher to their roster could prove to be the final piece needed for a championship run.

The Case for a Top-of-the-Rotation Ace

Starting pitching remains one of the cornerstones of championship teams. No team can contend for a World Series without a reliable rotation capable of matching up against opposing teams’ aces in the postseason. While the Orioles’ lineup and bullpen have shown substantial promise, their rotation remains the most significant area that requires reinforcement. Over the course of the 2023 season, while the Orioles had a solid starting staff, they were often outmatched by the top-tier pitchers of playoff contenders.

To elevate their status to serious World Series contenders, the Orioles should look toward acquiring a bonafide ace — someone who has been proven at the highest level and is capable of handling the pressure of the postseason. This is where the allure of a three-time Cy Young winner comes into play.

The Three-Time Cy Young Winner: A Proven Commodity

When discussing a three-time Cy Young Award winner on the free-agent market, the focus is likely on a future Hall of Famer who has not only been dominant throughout his career but also brings credibility, experience, and the mental fortitude necessary for a championship-caliber team. Such a pitcher would not just provide innings, but also add leadership to a rotation that may still lack that veteran presence.

A Cy Young winner of this caliber would immediately become the ace of any team, instantly upgrading their starting rotation. The Orioles have experienced solid production from their young arms, but a veteran with the pedigree of winning multiple Cy Young Awards would provide the Orioles’ pitching staff with an experienced anchor. Moreover, the presence of a pitcher with such a decorated resume would create a trickle-down effect, improving the performance of younger pitchers like Grayson Rodriguez, Dean Kremer, and Kyle Bradish. A mentor on the mound could prove invaluable as the Orioles continue to develop their pitching staff.

The allure of a three-time Cy Young winner is not limited solely to his track record of excellence. These types of pitchers are usually known for their durability, making them reliable options to take the mound in both the regular season and postseason. Their ability to log substantial innings and handle pressure situations is something the Orioles could benefit from immensely as they build a rotation capable of competing at the highest levels.

Financial Flexibility: A Key Factor

The Orioles are in a favorable financial situation heading into the 2024 season. Unlike some of their competitors in the AL East, the Orioles have not been weighed down by exorbitant long-term contracts and have the payroll flexibility to make a major move. This financial room would allow them to go after a high-priced free agent such as a three-time Cy Young winner without sacrificing future payroll flexibility.

Additionally, the Orioles’ ownership group has shown an increased willingness to spend on the right pieces in recent seasons. With the team on the cusp of competing for a World Series, the front office is likely more motivated than ever to add a proven ace to the fold. This could lead to a strong pursuit of a star pitcher who can elevate the team’s chances of securing a title.

However, while the financial flexibility is an advantage, the Orioles will need to consider the financial terms of any deal they negotiate. A three-time Cy Young winner will command a substantial contract, likely in the range of several years with a significant average annual value (AAV). Therefore, the front office must balance the need for immediate pitching help with the long-term health of their payroll.

Competing with Other Contenders

As enticing as the opportunity to acquire a three-time Cy Young winner might be, the Orioles are not the only team in the market for such a high-profile pitcher. Rival teams, especially those in the AL East like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays, are all expected to pursue top-tier free-agent pitchers. In addition, several National League teams with contending aspirations will likely be in the mix for this pitcher’s services.

To make a successful bid, the Orioles will have to sell the idea of joining a rising and youthful team poised for long-term success. While other suitors may be able to offer a more immediate return or a larger market, the Orioles can highlight their strong farm system, competitive spirit, and promising roster as part of their pitch. Additionally, Baltimore’s proximity to major East Coast markets could be an attractive proposition for any free agent looking to capitalize on the media attention that a Cy Young-winning pitcher would inevitably draw.

Long-Term Impact on the Orioles’ Championship Window

Acquiring a pitcher of this caliber would not just be a short-term fix for the Orioles’ rotation. It would signal their commitment to building a sustainable championship contender. With several young players, such as Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Cedric Mullins, already in place, the addition of a proven ace could elevate their overall standing in the American League.

Adding a three-time Cy Young winner would increase the Orioles’ chances of going deep in the playoffs, and possibly securing the first World Series title for the franchise since 1983. The Orioles’ front office understands that the window of opportunity for championship contention can often be fleeting. Having a player who can anchor the rotation for several seasons could ensure that the team remains a postseason contender for years to come.

In terms of team culture, the addition of a veteran ace with a legacy of success would bring leadership and a level of expectation that could push the entire roster to perform at its peak. The presence of such a player could influence the team’s approach to preparation, execution, and mindset, transforming the team from a promising contender to a legitimate championship contender.