The Baltimore Orioles are entering a pivotal offseason, with key roster decisions looming that will shape their 2025 campaign and beyond.
Here’s a breakdown of the major questions facing GM Mike Elias and how the team might address them:
. How Will the Orioles Replace Corbin Burnes?
Corbin Burnes was a game-changer for the Orioles, anchoring their rotation in 2024. However, his impending free agency and expected $200+ million price tag make it unlikely Baltimore will retain him, given their history of conservative spending.
– Alternative Options:
– Sonny Gray (Trade or Free Agency): Gray is coming off an excellent season and could provide a short-term, lower-cost alternative to Burnes.
– Eduardo Rodríguez or Marcus Stroman (Free Agency):Both are reliable starters who could slot into the rotation without requiring a long-term commitment.
– Internal Options:Grayson Rodriguez and DL Hall have shown promise, and the Orioles could focus on developing their young arms further.
– verdict:While Burnes would be ideal, the Orioles are more likely to pursue a second-tier ace or bolster their rotation through trades.
2. Will the Orioles Pay to Keep James McCann?
James McCann has been a valuable veteran presence, both on the field and in the clubhouse, serving as a mentor to Adley Rutschman and providing leadership for a young roster. However, his price tag ($6–$8 million annually) may give the Orioles pause.
– Key Factors:
– Samuel Basallo’s Development: Basallo’s struggles in Triple-A suggest he isn’t ready to back up Rutschman in 2025. Keeping McCann buys more time for Basallo’s development.
– Clubhouse Impact:McCann’s leadership and experience are intangibles that may justify his cost, especially for a team aiming to contend.
– Verdict:Retaining McCann seems like the best move, as he bridges the gap to Basallo and maintains stability behind Rutschman.
3. Addressing the Need for a Right-Handed Bat
The Orioles need more balance in their lineup, particularly a right-handed power bat to complement their lefty-heavy core.
– Options:
– Trade Market: Baltimore could target players like Teoscar Hernández or Hunter Renfroe, who fit their need for power and experience.
– Free Agency:J.D. Martinez or Justin Turner could provide a veteran presence with offensive upside.
– Internal Solutions:If the Orioles want to keep costs low, they could give more opportunities to players like Heston Kjerstad, who has shown promise in limited action.
– Verdict:A trade seems the most likely route, as Elias could use the Orioles’ prospect depth to acquire a proven right-handed hitter.
4. Will the Orioles Trade Top Prospects for Established Talent?
The Orioles’ farm system remains one of the best in baseball, but at some point, they’ll need to leverage that depth to acquire established stars.
– Trade Candidates:
– Dylan Cease (White Sox):A frontline starter with team control who could replace Burnes.
– Pete Alonso (Mets):If the Mets entertain offers, Alonso would bring the power and right-handed presence the Orioles need.
– Key Prospects on the Block: While Elias has been reluctant to part with top-tier prospects like Jackson Holliday or Grayson Rodriguez, players like Jordan Westburg, Joey Ortiz, or Kyle Stowers could be used as trade chips.
– Verdict:Trading prospects for proven talent will be necessary if the Orioles want to take the next step toward serious contention.
Outlook for the Offseason
The Orioles’ success in 2025 hinges on their ability to make bold yet calculated moves. While Corbin Burnes’ departure seems inevitable, a strong rotation piece and a right-handed bat could keep them competitive. Retaining James McCann would also stabilize the clubhouse and buy time for their young talent to develop.
With pressure mounting and fans eager for postseason success, this offseason will be a litmus test for how serious Baltimore is about contending.
