The Baltimore Orioles’ decision regarding outfielder Anthony Santander has sparked significant debate among Major League Baseball (MLB) observers. With reports indicating that teams like the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, and Los Angeles Angels are pursuing the talented switch-hitter, the question arises: Should the Orioles consider trading Santander, or is holding on to him the wisest course of action? This decision carries implications not just for Baltimore’s current roster but also for their long-term strategy and overall competitiveness. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Santander is a desirable commodity, the potential benefits and risks of a trade, and ultimately whether the Orioles should pull the trigger on a deal or hold firm.
Who is Anthony Santander?
Anthony Santander is a 29-year-old Venezuelan outfielder who has spent the bulk of his major league career with the Orioles, debuting in 2017. A switch-hitter with power and a well-rounded skill set, Santander has been a steady contributor to the Orioles’ offense. He offers versatility, capable of playing both corner outfield spots and even seeing occasional time as a designated hitter.
Offensively, Santander has shown a consistent ability to hit for power, with his best season coming in 2021 when he blasted 33 home runs and drove in 89 RBIs, despite the Orioles’ struggles as a team. Over the past few years, Santander has developed into one of the most reliable hitters on the roster, and his switch-hitting ability makes him a valuable asset, as it allows him to handle pitching from both sides of the mound with relative ease.
Why are the Blue Jays, Mets, and Angels Interested?
The Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, and Los Angeles Angels are all contending teams with legitimate playoff aspirations, and each has identified areas in their rosters where Santander could provide an immediate upgrade. Let’s examine why these teams are interested.
Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays are a team loaded with young talent and high expectations, but they have areas of concern, especially when it comes to their outfield depth. Toronto boasts elite hitters like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and George Springer, but there’s a noticeable gap when it comes to reliable production from the outfield. Santander would fit nicely into the Blue Jays’ lineup, offering power and a balanced approach to complement their top-heavy offense.
While Springer and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. have been solid in the outfield, the Blue Jays have looked for additional depth and an extra right-handed bat. Santander, who has experience hitting both left- and right-handed pitching, would provide a stable presence in the outfield, adding to the Blue Jays’ already potent lineup. His defensive abilities, although not elite, are serviceable, and he could likely be a better fit than some of their other outfielders.
For the Blue Jays, acquiring Santander would be about bolstering their offensive depth as they chase a division title in the highly competitive American League East. His contract, which offers some control for the 2025 season, makes him an attractive option without jeopardizing their future.
New York Mets
The New York Mets, in their perpetual push to contend, have spent considerable money on improving their roster and are looking to solidify their outfield. With veterans like Starling Marte and Brandon Nimmo, the Mets have experience and star power, but their outfield depth could still use reinforcement. Santander’s power bat and versatility would add another level of depth and protection to the Mets’ lineup, especially given their desire to become more balanced offensively.
Santander’s switch-hitting ability would be valuable in helping the Mets face a variety of pitchers, giving them an edge in close games and high-leverage situations. The Mets also need depth on the bench and might see Santander as a potential everyday outfielder or a key platoon player that can be moved around based on matchups. Moreover, having another established hitter with Santander’s ability would complement their star players and offer additional protection in the lineup.
For the Mets, acquiring Santander would solidify their standing as one of the National League’s best teams, helping them improve their odds in a competitive division and postseason race.
Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels, much like the Mets, are perpetually in a win-now mode, especially with superstars like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani in their lineup. Despite their offensive firepower, the Angels have historically struggled with inconsistent outfield production and a lack of depth. Santander would provide a much-needed boost to the Angels’ outfield and give them another right-handed bat to balance their lineup.
Much like the Blue Jays, the Angels are chasing a playoff spot and could use Santander to give them a more balanced offense as they try to compete in the American League West. Santander’s ability to play both corner outfield positions would give the Angels flexibility, enabling them to rest other players while ensuring the offense remains productive. Additionally, Santander could be a key figure in anchoring the middle of their order, providing protection for Ohtani and Trout.
For the Angels, this is a high-stakes move to maximize their window of contention, particularly given Ohtani’s looming free agency and Trout’s injury history. Santander’s consistency and power would help mitigate some of the team’s offensive weaknesses, potentially pushing them closer to the postseason.
Should the Orioles Trade Santander?
Given the level of interest from multiple contending teams, the Orioles are in a position of power. But should they seriously consider trading one of their most reliable hitters? The answer is far from simple and depends on several factors.
1. Baltimore’s Current Competitive Window
The Orioles are in a fascinating period of transition. After years of rebuilding, the team has emerged with one of the most promising young rosters in MLB. Players like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Cedric Mullins have already established themselves as stars, and the Orioles have a strong minor league system poised to contribute more talent in the near future.
Santander, while not the cornerstone of their future, is still a valuable piece to this team. His experience and consistent offensive production make him a key contributor to a team that is on the cusp of playoff contention. However, the Orioles also face a balancing act: they need to decide whether to continue focusing on their youth movement and potentially move Santander for prospects or to hold on to him and try to maximize their competitive window in the present.
If the Orioles believe they are just one or two pieces away from being true postseason contenders, it might make sense to hold onto Santander. His consistency and power are valuable assets, and he could be a steady presence in the middle of the lineup for years to come.
2. The Return on a Potential Trade
The Orioles are in an enviable position because Santander’s trade value is likely high, particularly with contending teams needing a player of his caliber. Teams like the Blue Jays, Mets, and Angels would not only offer immediate help in the form of MLB-ready talent but may also be willing to part with top prospects or controllable players that could help the Orioles in the long run.
For a team focused on sustainable success, acquiring a handful of high-ceiling prospects or established major league players could accelerate Baltimore’s rebuild and provide more depth in key areas. That said, trading Santander would be a tough decision, as it risks losing a steady offensive presence that can play multiple roles.
3. The Role of Team Management
Under the leadership of general manager Mike Elias, the Orioles have demonstrated a clear commitment to a rebuild centered around young talent. The decision to trade Santander may align with this broader strategy, especially if the front office sees a potential deal as an opportunity to acquire pieces that fit better within their future plans. However, such a move would need to be balanced with maintaining the current team’s competitiveness, as the Orioles are eager to prove they are not just a rebuilding club but one that can contend for a postseason spot.
