Orioles Target Starting Pitching as Free Agency Begins
With the World Series concluded, free agency is about to commence, and the Baltimore Orioles are expected to be key contenders in the market. According to Jim Bowden, a former major league general manager writing for The Athletic, the Orioles are good matches for several top-tier starting pitchers and some relievers.
Free Agent Outlook
While the Orioles have an urgent need for outfielders, especially right-handed hitters, Bowden does not see Baltimore as a natural destination for premier outfield free agents. He recently ranked his top 50 free agents, which will soon be complemented by a list from MLBTradeRumors.com.
Orioles' Recent Free Agency Approach
Under the leadership of Mike Elias, Baltimore had largely avoided signing high-profile free agents. That stance shifted within the past year with notable deals such as Tyler O'Neill's three-year, $49.5 million contract, which includes an opt-out clause O'Neill is expected to decline soon. The Orioles also secured catcher/first baseman Samuel Basallo on an eight-year, $67 million deal, featuring an option for 2034.
"Bowden’s top-rated free-agent starter is Houston Astros left-hander Framber Valdez. He thinks that besides the Orioles, the Astros, Braves, Mets, Cubs and Padres are the best fits."
Despite these moves, some fans remain skeptical about the Orioles taking an aggressive approach in the upcoming free agency period.
Summary
The Orioles are poised to add key starting pitchers in free agency while showing cautious, strategic signings rather than a blockbuster spending spree.
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