As the MLB offseason approaches, the Baltimore Orioles are in a unique and promising position. The team has seen its extensive rebuilding efforts finally pay off, with their young talent propelling them into serious World Series contention. Their recent success has positioned them as a team on the brink of greatness, making it crucial for them to seize this opportunity. The Orioles front office, which demonstrated its ambition by being aggressive before the trade deadline, will need to continue this approach in the offseason to maximize their championship window.
With the Orioles’ roster showing signs of contention, it’s imperative to identify key areas where they can bolster their squad to maintain and build upon their current success. The upcoming offseason presents an opportunity for the team to make impactful trades that could significantly enhance their chances of winning a World Series. Here are three substantial trades the Orioles should consider pursuing to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season and beyond.
First on the list is the potential acquisition of Jesus Luzardo, a starting pitcher who was heavily discussed as a trade candidate leading up to the trade deadline. Luzardo’s name was mentioned frequently in trade rumors, but a back injury derailed any potential deal. Despite this setback, Luzardo remains a compelling target for the Orioles. At just 26 years old, Luzardo possesses a lot of potential and could be a valuable addition to the Orioles’ rotation, which could use some bolstering.
This season, Luzardo’s performance has been somewhat inconsistent. He has posted a 3-6 record with a 5.00 ERA, a 1.25 WHIP, and a 2.6 K/BB ratio across 12 starts, covering 66.2 innings. While these numbers are not stellar, they do not fully capture Luzardo’s potential. His talent and upside are evident, and with proper coaching and support, he could develop into a more effective pitcher. Luzardo has shown flashes of brilliance in the past and could benefit from a change of scenery and a fresh start with the Orioles. Adding Luzardo to their rotation could provide the team with a much-needed boost and depth as they aim for a championship.
Next on the list is Mason Miller, a closer who represents a prime target for the Orioles’ bullpen. The team’s pursuit of a long-term closer is crucial, and Miller would be an ideal candidate to fill that role. Miller, a 25-year-old reliever, has demonstrated impressive skills this season. He has appeared in 35 games, recording a 2.16 ERA, a 0.82 WHIP, a 5.0 K/BB ratio, and 16 saves with only two blown saves.
Miller’s performance underscores his potential as an elite closer. His ability to consistently get outs and close games effectively is a valuable asset for any team. For the Orioles, securing Miller would provide them with a reliable end-of-game option and bolster their bullpen, which is essential for maintaining leads and securing victories. Although Miller will likely come at a high cost, his addition could be a game-changer for the Orioles and significantly enhance their chances of success in the postseason.
Finally, Garrett Crochet emerges as another key target for the Orioles. The 25-year-old pitcher has been a name of interest for Baltimore in trade discussions. Crochet has started 23 games this season, compiling a 6-8 record with a 3.19 ERA, a 1.01 WHIP, a 5.4 K/BB ratio, and 118.1 innings pitched. His performance this season highlights his potential as a top-tier starter.
Crochet’s impressive statistics suggest that he could develop into a future ace for the Orioles. His ability to deliver quality innings and maintain a strong ERA while striking out a significant number of batters makes him a valuable addition to any rotation. For the Orioles, acquiring Crochet would not only strengthen their starting rotation but also provide them with a young, high-upside pitcher who could be a cornerstone of their pitching staff for years to come.
The Orioles have a golden opportunity to capitalize on their current success by pursuing key trades that address their needs and bolster their roster for the future. Jesus Luzardo, Mason Miller, and Garrett Crochet represent three significant trade targets who could make a substantial impact on the team’s chances of winning a World Series. Each player brings unique strengths and potential that align with the Orioles’ goals of both immediate and long-term success. By strategically pursuing these trades, the Orioles can continue to build on their promising foundation and position themselves as a formidable contender in the coming seasons.
Leave a Reply