The Baltimore Orioles face a pivotal offseason as they navigate the potential loss of two key players, **Corbin Burnes** and **Anthony Santander**, to free agency.
Their departures would leave significant holes in the team’s rotation and lineup, forcing the front office to be aggressive in finding high-caliber replacements.
### Corbin Burnes’ Impact and Replacement Options
Burnes has been an anchor for the Orioles’ rotation since being acquired in February, with his Cy Young-caliber performance providing the ace they’ve lacked. His departure would create a void atop the rotation, and with **Blake Snell** already off the market, Baltimore’s options for a replacement are narrowing. If Burnes departs, the Orioles may pursue alternatives such as:
1. **Nathan Eovaldi**:
– **Why He Fits**: A proven veteran with a solid track record, Eovaldi would bring stability to the middle of the rotation and valuable postseason experience.
– **Stats to Consider**: Over the past two seasons with the Rangers, Eovaldi posted a 3.72 ERA in 314.2 innings and contributed significantly during their championship run.
– **AL East Experience**: Having pitched for the Yankees, Red Sox, and Rays, Eovaldi is familiar with the division’s challenges, making him a strong candidate for the Orioles.
2. **Aaron Nola**:
– A workhorse and frontline starter, Nola is one of the top remaining free-agent pitchers. His ability to consistently deliver innings could be a big asset for Baltimore.
3. **Trade Options**:
– The Orioles could explore trades for pitchers like **Tyler Glasnow** (if the Rays are willing to move him) or **Dylan Cease**, providing a younger, high-upside replacement for Burnes.
### Anthony Santander’s Role and Potential Replacements
Santander’s rare switch-hitting power and ability to play both outfield and DH made him an integral part of the Orioles’ lineup. His 30-home-run potential will be difficult to replace, but the team could target players like:
1. **Teoscar Hernández**:
– A power-hitting outfielder with proven production, Hernández would bring a similar offensive profile to Santander’s.
2. **Cody Bellinger**:
– Though primarily a center fielder, Bellinger’s versatility and offensive resurgence make him an appealing option if the Orioles want to add left-handed pop to their lineup.
3. **Trade Market**:
– A potential trade for a controllable slugger could be another avenue, especially if the Orioles aim to keep their farm system productive while bolstering the roster.
### Broader Pitching Needs
Even if Burnes returns, the Orioles need additional depth behind their ace to contend in the postseason. Key options include:
– **Jordan Montgomery**: A reliable left-handed starter who excelled during the 2023 postseason.
– **Lucas Giolito**: Though inconsistent recently, Giolito could be a bounce-back candidate for a rotation in need of depth.
### Outlook
The Orioles’ offseason will hinge on whether they can retain Burnes and Santander. If they depart, Baltimore’s aggressive approach to finding similar profiles will dictate how competitive they remain in 2024.
With a promising young core already in place, filling these gaps with proven talent could propel them into serious World Series contention. However, the window to secure top-tier replacements is narrowing, so swift action will be critical.
