Following a remarkable season with their first 100-plus win tally since 1980, the Baltimore Orioles are gearing up for the offseason with a focus on fortifying their pitching rotation.
This strategic move comes on the heels of securing relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel to replace All-Star closer Felix Bautista, who is anticipated to miss the entire 2024 season.
With a robust farm system and a formidable offense, the Orioles are poised to pose a formidable challenge in the highly competitive American League East for years to come.
The Orioles’ primary objective is to secure a top-tier starting pitcher, essential for leading their pitching staff.
Despite the progress made by pitchers Kyle Bradish and Grayson Rodriguez in the 2023 season, additional reinforcements are required to navigate the fiercely competitive AL East.
A potential solution lies in acquiring right-handed pitcher Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers.
In the 2023 MLB season, Burnes demonstrated his prowess by achieving a 10-8 record with a 3.39 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and an impressive 200 strikeouts in 193.2 innings pitched, emerging as a leader in the Brewers’ rotation.
The Orioles, equipped with a talent-rich farm system, could leverage assets such as outfielders Colton Cowser and Heston Kjerstad or infielders Jordan Westburg and Coby Mayo to negotiate with the Brewers for Burnes.
To sweeten the deal, the Orioles may need to include pitchers like prospects Chayce McDermott or Cade Povich.
Securing Burnes would elevate the Orioles’ rotation, enabling them to compete more effectively with larger-market teams within their division.
However, recognizing the value of bolstering their pitching staff further, the Orioles should also consider signing left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery.
Montgomery, coming off a stellar season culminating in a World Series title with the Texas Rangers, would bring valuable experience and depth to the Orioles’ rotation.
In 2023, the 30-year-old left-hander posted a commendable 10-11 record, a 3.20 ERA, and 166 strikeouts in 188.2 innings pitched, earning a spot on the ALL-MLB second team.
Having spent over five seasons with the New York Yankees, Montgomery is well-versed in the nuances of the AL East and its various ballparks.
While Spotrac’s market value projection suggests a potential six-year, $110 million deal for Montgomery, there are rumors that his camp is seeking a more lucrative arrangement.
The addition of both Burnes and Montgomery to the Orioles’ rotation would position them as legitimate contenders in the 2024 season, solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with in the American League.
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