Orioles Pitching Market Update: What's Next?

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The Baltimore Orioles remain active in the pitching market, with rumors swirling around free agents like Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, as well as potential trade targets Tarik Skubal and Freddy Peralta. However, the team's front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias, is taking a cautious approach, wary of long-term, high-dollar contracts that could restrict the rest of the roster. The Orioles are also exploring trade options, having been linked to players like Shane Baz, Edward Cabrera, and Ryan Weathers. As the offseason continues, the Orioles' pitching puzzle remains unsolved, leaving fans in Birdland eager for the next move.

Why it matters

The Orioles' pitching staff is a critical piece of the team's rebuilding efforts, and their ability to add quality arms could significantly impact their chances of contending in the competitive AL East. Elias' preference for shorter, more team-friendly contracts reflects his desire to build a sustainable, well-rounded roster, but this approach may limit the team's ability to land top-tier pitching talent. The Orioles' decisions in the pitching market will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

The details

The Orioles are rumored to be interested in free agent pitchers Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, as well as potential trade targets Tarik Skubal and Freddy Peralta. However, the team's front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias, is taking a cautious approach, wary of long-term, high-dollar contracts that could restrict the rest of the roster. Elias has previously offered shorter-term, higher-AAV deals, such as his four-year, $45 million offer to Corbin Burnes last offseason, which the pitcher ultimately declined in favor of a six-year, $35 million AAV contract with the Diamondbacks. The Orioles are also exploring trade options, having been linked to players like Shane Baz, Edward Cabrera, and Ryan Weathers.

• The Orioles are still actively pursuing pitching options in the free agent and trade markets.
• Players and teams can take their time in the pitching market, with some deals stretching into spring training.
• In 2024, both Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery waited until late March to find new homes, with mixed results.

What’s next

The Orioles will continue to monitor the pitching market, both in free agency and via trade, as they look to bolster their rotation ahead of the 2026 season. The team's front office, led by Mike Elias, will likely remain cautious in their approach, seeking shorter-term, team-friendly deals rather than long-term, high-dollar contracts.