The Baltimore Orioles had an impressive trade deadline, acquiring Zach Eflin and Trevor Rogers. While these additions should bolster their chances of winning the division and potentially the World Series, they didn’t secure an ace. Although this wasn’t their most pressing need at the trade deadline, it does raise questions about their offseason plans.
Thomas Harrigan of MLB.com posed a question about the future of Baltimore’s rotation, which is crucial for several reasons. After trading for Corbin Burnes last offseason—a move that has paid off significantly—the Orioles face the possibility of losing him in the next few months.
Burnes will become a free agent at the end of the year, and given his status as one of the best pitchers in Major League Baseball this season, he could command nearly $300 million from a team. Although Baltimore has the financial capacity to offer such a contract, historically, they haven’t made such large commitments.
Harrigan speculates whether the Orioles’ trade deadline strategy reflects their confidence in retaining Burnes. Their decision not to pursue an ace could indicate they believe Burnes will stay.
“Baltimore’s measured Deadline approach could have a direct impact on how it operates in the offseason… Had they traded for Crochet or Skubal, the O’s may have been OK with letting Corbin Burnes walk in free agency. Now, though, they seem more likely to make a serious push to re-sign the right-hander. Of course, a blockbuster trade for an ace can’t be ruled out, especially if the Orioles aren’t able to reach a deal with Burnes. Although they traded five prospects in their deals for Eflin and Rogers, their elite supply of young talent remains largely intact.”
This perspective makes sense. It’s unlikely that the Orioles haven’t discussed a contract with Burnes, despite the lack of media coverage. They are aware of the possibility of losing him, which would return them to their position from less than a year ago. Having secured an ace in Burnes, the focus now is on keeping him. If they can’t, the future of their rotation will look much different.
