The Baltimore Orioles’ offseason has been a mixed bag, leaving fans divided over the team’s direction under new owner David Rubenstein. Here’s a breakdown of the key moves and challenges facing the Orioles as they prepare for the 2025 season:
Key Losses and Additions
1. Loss of Corbin Burnes
– Burnes, the team’s ace, signed a six-year, $210 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
– The Orioles have yet to make a significant move to replace him, leaving a glaring hole in the rotation.
2. Lineup Changes
– Departures: All-Star right fielder Anthony Santander is likely leaving, creating a void in the lineup.
– Additions
– Tyler O’Neill: Signed to a three-year, $49.5 million deal, O’Neill adds power to the outfield.
– Gary Sánchez: Signed to replace James McCann at catcher, bringing veteran presence behind the plate.
3. Depth Signings
– Nick Gordon: The former top prospect signed a minor league deal, offering versatility and depth across multiple positions.
Rotation Concerns
The Orioles’ rotation is a major question mark after losing Burnes. Injuries and depth issues plagued the team in 2024, and they’ve yet to address these concerns meaningfully.
– Jack Flaherty Rumors
– A reunion with Flaherty, a World Series champion, has been speculated but seems unlikely.
– Insider Rich Dubroff noted that Flaherty didn’t have a good experience in Baltimore during his brief stint in 2023 and may be seeking a long-term deal the Orioles are unwilling to offer.
– The team may instead pursue upgrades via trade, though no major moves have been made yet.
Fan Sentiment
Many Orioles fans are frustrated by the lack of aggressive moves to build on the team’s recent playoff appearances. Despite signing O’Neill and Sánchez, the failure to extend star players or land top-tier talent has led to skepticism about Rubenstein’s commitment to contention.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles appear to be banking on their young core taking another step forward in 2025. While this approach has merit given their strong farm system, it also carries risks, particularly in a competitive AL East.
If the Orioles hope to contend for a championship, addressing the rotation and securing long-term deals for key players will be critical. The clock is ticking for Rubenstein and the front office to prove they can lead the team to sustained success.
