The Baltimore Orioles recently made headlines by signing outfielder Tyler O’Neill to bolster their lineup. However, MLB Network reported that the team also considered adding Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Randal Grichuk before ultimately choosing O’Neill. Grichuk, a veteran free agent, remains a desirable option for teams seeking a consistent bat and outfield presence.
In 2024, Grichuk had a strong season with the Diamondbacks, posting a .291 batting average, hitting 12 home runs, and driving in 46 runs across 106 games. Over his career, Grichuk has played for several teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Colorado Rockies, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Angels, amassing over 200 home runs. Despite missing out on a deal with the Orioles, Grichuk’s experience and consistent performance make him an attractive target in the free-agent market.
The Orioles had a solid 2024 season, finishing with a 91-71 record and earning a spot in the American League playoffs. However, their postseason run ended with a loss to the Kansas City Royals. Baltimore is determined to build on its success and make a deeper playoff push in 2025, especially as they face stiff competition in the AL East. The New York Yankees, who won the division in 2024 and advanced to the World Series, remain a formidable opponent. With their pursuit of superstar Juan Soto, the Yankees are likely to stay atop the division standings.
Baltimore, operating with a smaller payroll than division rivals like the Yankees and Boston Red Sox, has been active in free agency to stay competitive. The signing of O’Neill to a three-year, $49.5 million contract is a key move for the Orioles. O’Neill is coming off a productive 2024 season with the Boston Red Sox, where he hit 31 home runs and recorded 61 RBIs.
In addition to O’Neill, the Orioles secured veteran catcher Gary Sánchez on a one-year, $8.5 million deal. Sánchez hit .211 with 11 home runs and 37 RBIs for the Milwaukee Brewers last season. His acquisition provides experience behind the plate and allows Baltimore to continue developing young talent at the catcher position.
While the Orioles have focused on offensive upgrades, they are now shifting their attention to improving their pitching staff. According to ESPN, Baltimore is pursuing several pitching options, including Grayson Rodriguez and Dean Kremer, to strengthen their rotation. Competing in the AL East, a division known for its high payrolls and talent-laden rosters, demands strategic roster enhancements for sustained success.
Orioles fans are hopeful these offseason moves will propel the team to greater heights. The franchise’s last World Series victory was in 1983, and they are eager to see their team reclaim glory. After winning the AL East in 2023, Baltimore aims to reestablish itself as a consistent postseason contender and end its championship drought. Only time will tell if these additions will help the Orioles achieve their lofty aspirations in 2025 and beyond.
