Jul 21, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Baltimore Orioles right fielder Anthony Santander (25) celebrates with Baltimore Orioles first baseman Ryan Mountcastle (6) and Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Adley Rutschman (35) after hitting a two run home run during the eighth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
As the trade deadline approaches, the Baltimore Orioles are in a favorable position to act as buyers for the second consecutive year.
Currently boasting a 60-39 record, they hold a two-game lead over the New York Yankees in the American League East. Despite this, there are several critical areas the team needs to address to solidify their status as top contenders.
Injuries have depleted their starting rotation, and they began the season without All-Star closer Félix Bautista. To enhance their playoff prospects, both their starting and relief pitching needs reinforcements.
Additionally, the Orioles’ outfield has been inconsistent, with Anthony Santander being the sole standout performer. The team must prioritize upgrades across multiple positions, but which one is the most urgent?
3. Outfield
The Orioles’ outfield, initially seen as a strength, has underperformed this season. While Anthony Santander has made the All-Star team and rookie Heston Kjerstad shows promise, the rest of the outfield has not met expectations. Former All-Stars Austin Hays and Cedric Mullins are struggling at the plate, both with an OPS below .700 and batting averages under .250, with Mullins batting a mere .214. Colton Cowser, another key outfielder, has also failed to impress.
This underperformance has weakened the bottom of the Orioles’ lineup, prompting a need for an upgrade if a viable trade opportunity arises. Jazz Chisholm Jr. could be a potential target, providing a strong bat and glove, though acquiring him might require trading top prospects like Cowser or Kjerstad.
2. Relief Pitcher
For a team aiming for a deep playoff run, bolstering the bullpen is essential. The Orioles could benefit from replicating their 2014 strategy when they acquired elite reliever Andrew Miller, who played a pivotal role in their ALCS appearance that year.
This season, potential targets include All-Star relievers Mason Miller and Tanner Scott. Though securing such talent would come at a high cost, the payoff could be significant.
Bleacher Report has proposed a trade for Mason Miller involving prospects 2B Connor Norby, OF Dylan Beavers, and RHP Seth Johnson. While an elite reliever would be a valuable addition, addressing the starting rotation is a higher priority.
4. Starting Pitcher
Injuries have severely impacted the Orioles’ starting rotation, which once boasted considerable depth. Over the past month, the Orioles’ starting pitchers have collectively posted a 4.92 ERA, ranking 26th in MLB.
With a rotation led by All-Star Corbin Burnes, finding reliable starters to follow him is crucial. The most prominent trade target is Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers, though other options include starters from the Cincinnati Reds and pitchers Erick Fedde and Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox.
Strengthening the rotation is the most pressing need for the Orioles to maintain their competitive edge and pursue a World Series title. If they can only make one trade, it should be for a starting pitcher, which would significantly enhance their chances of postseason success.
