The Los Angeles Angels and Baltimore Orioles find themselves in intriguing yet contrasting positions this offseason, with both teams making moves that could significantly shape their futures.
Angels’ Roster Overhaul: Betting on Immediate Results
The Angels’ decision to clear former first-round picks like Matt Thaiss and Jordyn Adams from their 40-man roster signals a sharp pivot toward retooling.
By prioritizing players like Matthew Lugo and Jack Dashwood over Adams, the Angels seem to be favoring immediate contributors over long-term potential projects.
Gustavo Campero’s persistence on the roster, despite limited upside compared to Adams, highlights the organization’s focus on specific traits or fit rather than pure talent.
Implications for Jordyn Adams:
– High Ceiling:At 25, Adams remains an athletic, high-upside prospect who could thrive in the Orioles’ system. His minor league deal with an invite to major league camp provides him with an opportunity to impress in a new environment.
– Change of Scenery: The Orioles’ development system, particularly in unlocking offensive potential, could be exactly what Adams needs. If he blossoms in Baltimore, the Angels could regret their decision, especially if Campero or Dashwood fail to contribute meaningfully.
Orioles: A Contender with Pitching Questions
The Orioles are in a critical phase, with a young, talented lineup ready to compete for a World Series. However, their pitching staff, particularly the rotation, remains a glaring concern.
Starting Pitching Needs:
– Corbin Burnes Departure:Losing Burnes leaves a void at the top of the rotation, further amplifying their need for a frontline starter.
– Missed Opportunities:The Yankees’ signing of Max Fried and the Red Sox’s aggressive trade for Garrett Crochet highlight the urgency of addressing the Orioles’ pitching deficiencies.
Jack Flaherty as a Fallback Option:
– Past Struggles: Flaherty’s disappointing stint with Baltimore in 2023 (6.75 ERA) and subsequent prove-it deal with Detroit suggest he’s a risky choice for a team with championship aspirations.
– Potential Upside: If healthy, Flaherty still possesses the talent to be a solid mid-rotation arm. A reunion on a short-term deal could make sense if the Orioles fail to land a bigger name.
Outlook for the Orioles:
Baltimore’s competitive window is wide open, but their pitching staff could be the Achilles’ heel if not addressed. While Flaherty offers a low-risk, medium-reward option, the Orioles may need to explore trades or bigger free-agent signings to solidify their rotation.
Their willingness to part with top-hitting prospects, as Boston did for Crochet, could determine how far they go in 2024.
For both teams, the moves made this offseason will be pivotal. The Angels are betting on a reshaped roster to break their postseason drought, while the Orioles must address their pitching to maximize their championship potential.
