Baltimore Orioles Agree to Terms with Three Critical Stars to Avoid Arbitration
In a move that has sent positive ripples through the fanbase and clubhouse alike, the Baltimore Orioles have successfully reached agreements with three pivotal players ahead of the arbitration deadline. By securing these deals, the team not only strengthens its roster for the upcoming season but also reinforces the club’s commitment to its core players as they aim for continued success in the competitive AL East.
Key Players Avoiding Arbitration
The players involved in these agreements are critical to the Orioles’ success in 2025 and beyond. While specifics of the contracts are still being finalized, reports indicate that the deals are set to keep these players in Baltimore for at least another year, giving the Orioles more stability and control as they move forward.
- Ryan Mountcastle (1B/DH)
Ryan Mountcastle is one of the most important young power hitters for the Orioles. The 26-year-old first baseman and designated hitter has quickly established himself as a major offensive threat. Mountcastle’s combination of raw power, consistency, and improved approach at the plate in recent seasons has made him a central figure in the team’s batting lineup.
Mountcastle’s breakout year in 2021, when he hit 33 home runs and posted an .806 OPS, was a sign of his potential. Though his numbers slightly regressed in 2023, he continued to demonstrate flashes of brilliance. In 2024, he rebounded to hit 29 home runs and posted an OPS near .800, cementing his place as a crucial part of the Orioles’ offensive foundation.
By avoiding arbitration, the Orioles can now focus on building around Mountcastle, providing him with the support he needs to fully reach his potential. This agreement also shows the team’s recognition of Mountcastle’s importance, not just for his bat but for his leadership within the clubhouse.
2. Adley Rutschman (Catcher)
Arguably the centerpiece of the Orioles’ roster, Adley Rutschman is the future of the franchise. As a young catcher with elite defensive skills and a mature offensive game, Rutschman has quickly become a fan favorite and the team’s most valuable player. The 26-year-old catcher has all the tools to be one of the best in baseball for the next decade.
Rutschman’s ability to control the game behind the plate, combined with his ability to get on base and contribute offensively, makes him an all-around star. His leadership and communication with pitchers have been instrumental in Baltimore’s recent success, and he is poised to be the face of the franchise for years to come. His 2023 campaign, in which he posted a .792 OPS and contributed significantly to both sides of the game, reaffirmed his status as one of the top young players in Major League Baseball.
By locking up Rutschman before the arbitration process, the Orioles signal their intention to keep him around for the long haul. The team views Rutschman not only as a critical piece of the present but also as the foundation for sustained success. Given his potential and current trajectory, Rutschman could very well be the Orioles’ next franchise cornerstone for the next decade.
3. Austin Voth (Starting Pitcher/Reliever)
Though Austin Voth may not have the same high-profile status as Mountcastle or Rutschman, his versatility and ability to pitch effectively in both starting and relief roles make him a vital piece for the Orioles’ pitching staff. The 30-year-old right-hander came over to the Orioles after a trade with the Washington Nationals in 2022, and he quickly carved out a role as a reliable option out of the bullpen.
In 2023, Voth showed his potential as a swingman, working both as a starter and a reliever. His ability to adapt to various roles, combined with his solid strikeout rates, allowed the Orioles to deploy him in different situations throughout the season. Although Voth has had inconsistent moments in the past, his ability to eat innings and provide valuable depth to the pitching staff makes him an essential component for the Orioles’ roster heading into 2025.
By avoiding arbitration, the Orioles ensure that they have flexibility in their pitching staff, keeping Voth available for long relief or spot starts. Voth’s performance in the 2024 season will be critical, as he continues to build on his adaptability and looks to solidify his place as a key depth option.
The Importance of These Deals for the Orioles
By avoiding arbitration with these three players, the Baltimore Orioles not only protect their roster but also send a message to their fanbase that they are serious about building a sustainable winner. Arbitration is often a process that can lead to tension between teams and players, as it involves negotiations over salary and playing time. By reaching agreements early, the Orioles avoid the potential drama of arbitration hearings and foster a stronger relationship with their key players.
From a financial standpoint, these contracts will help the Orioles manage their budget more efficiently. Arbitration deals tend to be one-year contracts, and while the terms are generally less expensive than long-term extensions, they still provide the team with some certainty heading into the new season. With Mountcastle, Rutschman, and Voth all being integral pieces of the team, these agreements give the Orioles a solid foundation for 2025.
For Mountcastle and Rutschman, these deals help keep the team’s young talent locked in for at least one more season, allowing the Orioles to continue their competitive trajectory without worrying about contract disputes. For Voth, avoiding arbitration allows the Orioles to retain a valuable role player who can contribute to the team’s pitching depth.
In terms of the team’s larger goals, these agreements represent a growing sense of confidence within the Orioles’ front office. The team has made significant strides in recent seasons, and by locking up key players like Mountcastle, Rutschman, and Voth, they are signaling their readiness to contend for a playoff spot again in 2025 and potentially beyond.
Looking Ahead: The Orioles’ Future
The Orioles are not only focused on the present but also on long-term success. While the arbitration agreements are important, the team’s front office is also heavily involved in long-term planning, especially with players like Mountcastle and Rutschman, who could eventually earn multi-year extensions.
Both Mountcastle and Rutschman are considered to be among the best young talents in Major League Baseball, and the Orioles would be wise to explore long-term deals with both players. For Mountcastle, a potential extension could lock him in as the team’s power-hitting corner infielder for the next several seasons. Similarly, Rutschman’s value as a top-tier catcher and franchise cornerstone makes him a candidate for a long-term commitment from the Orioles.
The team is also looking to bolster its roster with strategic additions in the offseason. With several highly regarded prospects in the minor league system and a roster that has shown promise in recent years, the Orioles are well-positioned to continue their ascent in the American League.
