It’s becoming evident that the Baltimore Orioles’ primary trade targets in 2024 will be starting pitchers. With injuries to Kyle Bradish and John Means, there are concerns about depth, despite strong performances from Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, and the emergence of Albert Suarez.
The Orioles recognize that strong starting pitching is crucial to winning the AL East again and avoiding an early postseason exit.
### Baltimore’s Top Starting Pitching Targets at the Deadline
While the Orioles’ trade deadline moves won’t be limited to starting pitchers, acquiring one could make the biggest impact. The key questions are which starting pitchers will be available before the 2024 MLB trade deadline and whether the Orioles can secure a deal for one of them. While time will answer the latter, here’s a look at the starting pitchers Baltimore might target.
Erick Fedde
Erick Fedde, currently with the White Sox, appears to be a prime candidate for a trade. Through 18 starts, he has a 6-3 record with a 3.13 ERA, significantly better than his career averages, likely earning him an all-star nod. At 31, and a former first-round pick, his talent has always been evident.
Fedde isn’t a rental; he signed a two-year, $15 million deal with the White Sox last offseason, meaning he’s under contract for next season at a bargain price given his current performance. This makes him a desirable but costly trade target in terms of prospects. However, if the Orioles trade for him, they’ll add minimal payroll and secure part of their 2025 rotation.
Garrett Crochet
Fedde’s teammate, Garrett Crochet, is also in trade rumors. The 25-year-old has been a breakout star in 2024, with an ERA just above 3.00 and leading the league in strikeouts, making him a popular target for teams like the Orioles.
Crochet has two more years of arbitration before becoming a free agent and, with a salary of $800,000 this year, will be affordable for the next two seasons. This enhances his trade value, and the White Sox aren’t pressured to trade him unless they receive a substantial offer. The Orioles would likely need to part with multiple high-level prospects to acquire Crochet.
Yusei Kikuchi
If the Orioles opt for a rental player, they could consider Toronto’s Yusei Kikuchi. Like Crochet, Kikuchi would add a second lefty to balance Burnes and Rodriguez. While not a frontline starter, Kikuchi would provide reliable depth without a significant cost in prospect capital.
The Orioles will monitor how Kikuchi rebounds from a 6.26 ERA in June and how Dean Kremer performs upon his return from the IL to assess their need for another starter. If Baltimore seeks depth and stability without aiming for a blockbuster trade, Kikuchi could be the right fit.