Waiting for the Pitching Market: Wednesday’s Bird Droppings Update
The Baltimore Orioles remain on the lookout for a major addition to their roster in the pitching market. Although rumors suggest they are interested in several key players, progress appears stagnant. Currently, they are linked to free agents Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, alongside potential trade acquisitions Tarik Skubal and Freddy Peralta.
Current Status of the Pitching Market
Despite ongoing interest, the Orioles face stiff competition in negotiations. There has been limited chatter about their interest in Zac Gallen, yet he remains a candidate for the team’s rotation. Tarik Skubal and Freddy Peralta, two notable trade targets, might also stay with their respective teams if asking prices do not drop.
Concerns About Late Signings
A lack of urgency in signing players could lead to complications. Players like Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery experienced difficult seasons after signing late in the offseason, impacting their performance. The Orioles seem wary of similar outcomes.
- Blake Snell: 9.51 ERA through June 2024
- Jordan Montgomery: 6.23 ERA over 117 innings in 2024
The ongoing negotiations in the pitching market hint at underlying issues. Teams aim for shorter contracts with less commitment, while players seek longer-term deals with guaranteed money. This impasse poses a risk to both sides.
Orioles’ Approach to High-Value Contracts
Mike Elias, President of Baseball Operations for the Orioles, has made it clear he is reluctant to offer extensive contracts to pitchers due to the associated risks. Last offseason, he extended a four-year, $45 million offer to Corbin Burnes, who ultimately signed for six years at a lower annual value. Elias’s approach emphasizes long-term roster flexibility.
Some franchise decisions highlight Elias’s philosophy. For instance, the Orioles have pursued trades for pitchers rather than investing heavily in free agency. Recent trades around the league include:
- Yankees acquiring Ryan Weathers
- Cubs landing Edward Cabrera
- Orioles looking into Shane Baz
Market Dynamics and Trends
The pitching market this offseason has shown distinct trends. Early in the winter, Dylan Cease signed a significant seven-year deal worth $210 million. However, subsequent signings like Tatsuya Imai’s three-year, $54 million contract indicate a shift toward lesser deals.
Historic Transactions and Anniversaries
On this day, the Orioles celebrate significant historical milestones:
- 1963: Orioles acquire shortstop Luis Aparicio and outfielder Al Smith from the White Sox.
- 1993: Addition of Harold Baines from the Athletics.
- 1994: Signing of third baseman Chris Sabo.
The Orioles are positioned at a crucial juncture as they navigate the pitching market. With various uncertainties ahead, it remains to be seen how they will finalize their roster before the season begins.
