The Baltimore Orioles are in the midst of an exciting rebuilding process, with a roster that is young, dynamic, and brimming with potential. Led by stars such as Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and a host of promising pitchers, the team has quickly become one of the most formidable in the American League. With a competitive window beginning to open, the Orioles will undoubtedly look to supplement their roster with key acquisitions in the coming years. However, one area where the Orioles should exercise caution is in the pursuit of high-profile free agents, especially when it comes to players who may not fit the long-term direction of the team.
In this piece, we’ll explore why the Orioles should steer clear of one particularly polarizing free agent slugger: Joc Pederson.
The Rise and Fall of Joc Pederson
Joc Pederson, a slugger with immense potential, has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career. He was a key figure for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their quest for a World Series title, contributing power and a solid bat in the middle of their lineup. Pederson’s most notable season came in 2019 when he hit 36 home runs, driving in 74 RBIs, and posting a .249/.339/.538 slash line. His ability to hit for power, particularly against right-handed pitching, has made him an appealing option for many teams.
However, despite his power potential, Pederson has also demonstrated significant inconsistency. In 2021, he had a relatively quiet season with the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves, posting a .249 batting average with 18 home runs and 64 RBIs. While he did play a crucial role in the Braves’ postseason run, it’s clear that Pederson’s performance has been uneven, and his ability to deliver at a consistent level is a major concern.
So, why should the Orioles avoid this star slugger?
1. Pederson’s Defensive Limitations
One of the most significant factors the Orioles must consider is Pederson’s defensive limitations. While Pederson has a strong arm and is capable of playing both corner outfield positions, his overall defense is subpar, particularly in center field. In recent years, he has been more of a liability in the outfield than an asset. His lack of range and ability to cover ground in the outfield has been a major concern, especially when compared to the likes of players such as Austin Hays and Cedric Mullins, who have much better defensive metrics.
For a team like the Orioles, who are building around strong defensive foundations, adding a player like Pederson, whose defense leaves much to be desired, would be counterproductive. Baltimore has focused heavily on defensive metrics and creating a well-rounded team, and Pederson’s defensive struggles could be a significant setback in their overall development.
2. Age and Long-Term Outlook
At 32 years old, Joc Pederson is no longer a young player. While he has shown the ability to hit for power, his age may limit his future potential. The Orioles are building a young, competitive team that will rely on players who can contribute for many years to come. Signing Pederson to a multi-year deal could tie up resources that could be better spent on players who are in their prime or have a higher potential for long-term success.
Given the Orioles’ current trajectory, investing in a player like Pederson, who may only provide short-term results, is not in line with the team’s long-term vision. While his power could certainly provide a boost to the lineup in the short term, his age and inconsistency could pose challenges moving forward, especially when considering the development of young players like Colton Cowser and Heston Kjerstad.
3. Pederson’s Inconsistent Batting Performance
Pederson has long been known for his power, but his overall consistency as a hitter has been a major concern. While he has had some excellent seasons, such as his 2019 campaign with the Dodgers, Pederson has also had several years where his batting average has been underwhelming. His career .230 batting average is a testament to his boom-or-bust style of hitting, and while that can be appealing for some teams in need of power, it doesn’t align with the balanced offensive approach the Orioles are aiming to build.
The Orioles have made great strides in improving their offense, and much of that has been due to the success of players who can get on base and make consistent contact. Players like Rutschman and Henderson represent the type of well-rounded hitters the team is looking for. Pederson’s tendency to strike out and his relatively low batting average could be a step backward for a team that has prided itself on putting together a more disciplined and balanced lineup.
4. Limited Versatility
Another key consideration for the Orioles is Pederson’s lack of positional versatility. While he can play both corner outfield spots, he doesn’t offer the same flexibility as other players on the market. The Orioles could benefit more from signing players who can play multiple positions or provide depth in various areas of the roster. Pederson’s limited positional value may make it harder for the team to maximize his potential contribution.
Baltimore’s roster is already somewhat loaded with outfielders, and while Pederson could be added to the mix, it would limit the flexibility of the team’s overall lineup. The Orioles would likely be better served investing in players who can contribute both offensively and defensively at multiple positions, thus providing the team with greater depth and versatility.
5. The Focus on Youth Development
One of the most exciting aspects of the Orioles’ current situation is their commitment to developing young talent. With the likes of Henderson, Rutschman, and a promising pitching staff, the Orioles are focused on developing a core of young players who can contribute for years to come. The team has placed an emphasis on player development, and their success in recent seasons is a testament to the importance of this strategy.
Signing Pederson could be seen as a distraction from this larger focus. Instead of investing in a veteran slugger who may provide short-term value, the Orioles should prioritize players who can grow with the organization and fit into their long-term vision. The team’s success over the past few years has come as a result of a focus on player development, and signing aging free agents like Pederson could send the wrong message and potentially derail the growth of younger players.
6. Potential Overpayment and Roster Imbalance
Another issue the Orioles should consider when evaluating a potential Pederson signing is the possibility of overpaying for his services. Given his track record of power, Pederson will likely command a significant salary on the open market. While the Orioles have flexibility in terms of payroll, they should be careful not to commit too much money to a player whose future performance may not justify the cost.
The Orioles are still in the early stages of their competitive window, and it’s essential that they use their resources wisely. The team should prioritize filling holes in the lineup with more consistent and cost-effective options, rather than overspending on a player like Pederson who may not provide enough value over the course of a multi-year deal.
