Baltimore Orioles Should Avoid This Star Free Agent Slugger at All Costs

As the Baltimore Orioles continue their ascent back into relevance in Major League Baseball, the front office has a crucial task ahead: building a championship-caliber roster. The team has seen significant improvements in recent seasons, and with young stars like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Grayson Rodriguez, the Orioles have the talent and potential to be a formidable force in the American League for years to come. However, the key to sustained success lies not only in developing their homegrown talent but also in making shrewd moves in the free-agent market.

One player that has garnered significant attention in free agency is a star slugger who has been a dominant force in the league for years. But for all his power and prestige, the Baltimore Orioles should be cautious and, in fact, should avoid pursuing him at all costs.

Let’s explore why the Orioles should steer clear of this player, despite his impressive resume.

1. Age and Declining Performance

When it comes to signing free-agent sluggers, one of the most significant risks is the player’s age and the potential for declining performance. The player in question is approaching the latter stages of his career, and his numbers have started to reflect the wear and tear of a long MLB journey. Over the past few seasons, his power numbers have dropped slightly, and while he’s still a formidable hitter, there are concerning signs that his best years may be behind him.

At the age of 34, a player is often entering the twilight of his career. The Orioles, who have built a young and dynamic roster, should be prioritizing long-term stability and growth rather than taking a risk on a player whose best days could be fading. The last thing Baltimore needs is a high-priced contract for a player who may not contribute as much in the future as he has in the past.

2. Defensive Limitations

A significant part of building a balanced team is ensuring that every player contributes not only offensively but also defensively. The player in question has become increasingly known for his defensive limitations, particularly at his primary position. While he may still be a decent hitter, his ability to contribute defensively has declined, and his range has diminished with age.

The Orioles have invested heavily in improving their defense, especially with talented young players like Henderson and Rutschman, who are both expected to be key contributors on both sides of the ball. Adding a player who is known for his defensive shortcomings could upset the balance that Baltimore has worked hard to build.

In a division as competitive as the American League East, where teams like the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Tampa Bay Rays have potent offenses, it’s essential that the Orioles maintain strong defensive fundamentals. A player who is a liability on defense could compromise that goal and hurt the team in the long run.

3. Injury Concerns

Another factor that makes the free-agent slugger a risky proposition for Baltimore is his injury history. While no player is entirely immune to injuries, this particular star has battled various ailments in recent seasons, including nagging lower-body issues that have affected his ability to stay on the field consistently. Injuries can severely impact a player’s performance, and signing an aging slugger with a history of injuries is a gamble the Orioles should avoid.

If the Orioles commit a significant portion of their payroll to a player who is prone to injuries, it could limit their ability to strengthen other areas of the roster. The team has built a solid foundation, but they still need improvements in areas like pitching depth and veteran leadership. Investing in a player who may miss a considerable amount of time due to injury would be a step backward.

4. Financial Flexibility and Long-Term Strategy

The Orioles have a bright future ahead, and their young core of players is ready to take the team to the next level. However, with the influx of young talent comes the need for financial flexibility to lock in players long-term when they hit free agency. Baltimore should be cautious about spending a significant amount of money on a player whose best years may be behind him.

The MLB free-agent market is a tricky one, and teams must carefully consider how much they are willing to commit to players who may not be able to deliver for the full length of their contract. The Orioles have made great strides in recent seasons, but they are still in the process of building a championship-caliber roster. Committing to an aging player for multiple years could limit the team’s ability to build a sustainable winner.

Moreover, the Orioles need to ensure they have room in the budget to extend their young stars, including Rutschman and Henderson, as they enter their prime. If they overextend themselves on a free-agent slugger who may only provide a couple of productive seasons, it could hamper their ability to lock up their core players for the long term.

5. Overpaying for Past Reputation

In the world of professional sports, a player’s reputation often precedes them. This free-agent slugger has been one of the most dominant hitters in the league for much of his career, but the Orioles should be careful not to overpay for past accomplishments. While his accolades and history of success are certainly impressive, they don’t necessarily guarantee that he will continue to perform at a high level.

It’s tempting for teams to make moves based on a player’s track record, but the Orioles should be looking toward the future rather than leaning on nostalgia. Signing a player who is riding on his past successes could lead to overpaying for production that doesn’t materialize.

6. Better Alternatives in the Market

The 2025 free-agent class offers a range of alternatives who could help the Orioles in their quest for a championship. Some younger sluggers with a better overall fit for the team’s needs could be available, and Baltimore should explore those options. Rather than chasing a declining star, they could target a player who is in their prime and who could complement the team’s strengths, especially in terms of defense and overall offensive consistency.

The Orioles should also consider acquiring players through trade, as they have the depth in their minor league system to make impactful moves without depleting their core. It would be more beneficial for Baltimore to pursue a younger, more versatile hitter or even invest in improving the pitching staff, which remains a key area for improvement.

7. Potential for Market Overreaction

The allure of big names in free agency often leads to market overreaction. Teams tend to bid on players based on their reputation or a hot streak in their performance. However, the Orioles must resist the urge to be part of that frenzy. While the free-agent slugger might receive a lot of attention from various teams, it’s essential for the Orioles to stay true to their long-term strategy and avoid getting swept up in the hype. The right decision is often the one that involves patience and restraint.