Baltimore Orioles Front Office Has Unprecedented Number of Top Picks in MLB Draft

The Baltimore Orioles’ front office has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, largely due to their increasingly strong presence in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft. As of 2025, the Orioles are poised to make a significant impact in the MLB Draft, armed with an unprecedented number of top-tier picks that will likely influence their future for years to come. The team’s ability to secure such a wealth of high selections speaks to a calculated, well-executed rebuilding process, coupled with smart management and player development strategies that have made them one of the most intriguing franchises in baseball.

A Strong Draft Strategy

When the Orioles entered their rebuilding phase around 2018, few could have predicted the magnitude of their turnaround. As they went through a series of difficult seasons, it became apparent that the key to the Orioles’ revival would lie in their ability to develop talent from within. The draft would be their primary tool for acquiring the next generation of stars, and the front office set its sights on making the most of every pick. The 2025 MLB Draft may very well represent the apex of this strategy, with Baltimore holding a historically large number of top picks.

The Orioles’ front office, led by General Manager Mike Elias, has invested heavily in data analytics, scouting, and player development in recent years. The team’s recent success in finding undervalued talent and developing it into major league contributors has created a template for how to build a sustainable and competitive team over the long haul. By ensuring that they have access to a deep pool of talent from the draft, the Orioles are positioning themselves to remain competitive for the foreseeable future.

A Deep Pool of Top Picks

The 2025 MLB Draft promises to be an exciting one for Baltimore, with the Orioles holding several highly coveted early-round picks. The team is set to have multiple picks in the first round and supplemental rounds, thanks to various compensatory selections and the fruits of previous trades. These high picks are the result of a combination of factors, including the team’s recent performance, free-agent signings, and trade-deadline moves that have helped stockpile selections.

The Orioles’ ability to secure these picks is a testament to the team’s foresight and planning. For example, the team’s decision to trade away established veterans in exchange for younger prospects and draft picks has provided them with valuable assets. This strategy allows them to continue their rebuilding process without sacrificing the long-term potential of their roster.

One notable example of this process at work is the Orioles’ strategy surrounding their recent performance. While it can be tempting for teams in rebuilding phases to focus on short-term success, the Orioles have wisely kept their eyes on the big picture. By accumulating top picks over a series of seasons, they have created the opportunity to add a wealth of talent at the top of the draft, increasing their chances of landing future stars.

The Evolution of the Orioles’ Front Office

To understand the significance of the Orioles’ draft strategy, it’s important to look at the evolution of the team’s front office. Under the leadership of Mike Elias, the Orioles have taken a more modern, data-driven approach to player evaluation. This has included an increased focus on analytics, as well as a revamped scouting department that has prioritized uncovering overlooked talent both in college and high school baseball.

Elias, who was hired as GM in late 2018, brought a fresh perspective to the organization, having previously worked with the Houston Astros. During his time with the Astros, Elias was instrumental in helping build one of the most successful player development systems in baseball, which ultimately helped the team win the World Series in 2017. With his deep understanding of the importance of drafting and developing homegrown talent, Elias has instilled a similar approach in Baltimore.

The Orioles’ front office has also made significant investments in their international scouting efforts. While the majority of their draft selections have come from the domestic amateur ranks, they have also made headway in identifying international prospects who could make an impact in the majors. This global approach to scouting has expanded the team’s talent pool, giving them more options when it comes time to make selections in the draft.

Additionally, the Orioles have made a concerted effort to build an infrastructure that supports player development at every level. From their minor league affiliates to their training facilities, the organization has invested in ensuring that their draft picks and young prospects have the resources they need to succeed. The Orioles’ commitment to development is a key reason why their farm system is widely regarded as one of the most talented in baseball.

A Look at Potential Draft Targets

Given their strong draft position, the Orioles are poised to select some of the best young talent in the 2025 MLB Draft. While it’s always difficult to predict which players will be available when the team’s turn to pick arrives, there are several highly regarded prospects that could be a good fit for the Orioles’ future.

One position that Baltimore is likely to prioritize is pitching. Although the team has several promising arms in its system, the need for high-quality starting pitchers is always critical in building a competitive team. The Orioles have shown a preference for drafting pitchers with high upside, and this draft is expected to feature a number of talented arms who could step in and contribute in the majors within a few years.

Additionally, the Orioles are expected to continue to target high-ceiling position players who can provide long-term impact. Players who can hit for power, get on base, and play multiple positions are always in demand, and Baltimore has historically placed a premium on selecting players with these skill sets.

In the 2025 draft, expect to see the Orioles focus on well-rounded athletes who can make an immediate impact. They will likely look for players who can play in the field and hit for average, as the team has shown a preference for versatility in recent seasons. With several top picks, they will have the flexibility to pursue the best available talent, regardless of position.

The Long-Term Vision

While the 2025 MLB Draft may be the most high-profile for the Orioles in recent memory, it is only one piece of a larger, long-term vision. The team’s front office is building a sustainable foundation that will not only improve the team in the near future but also set them up for continued success over the next decade. By accumulating top draft picks, developing homegrown talent, and maintaining a strong farm system, the Orioles are positioning themselves to be a perennial contender in the American League East.

One of the key elements of the Orioles’ long-term strategy is their emphasis on player development. The organization has shown a commitment to bringing in experienced coaches and player development personnel who can help shape the next generation of stars. The team’s development system has become one of the most respected in baseball, and it’s likely that many of their recent draft picks will soon start to make an impact on the major league roster.

Furthermore, as the team continues to develop young players, they will have the flexibility to supplement their roster with free-agent signings or trades as needed. The success of their draft strategy gives them the ability to be aggressive in the trade market, knowing that they have a strong pipeline of young talent to back them up.