Yahoo Sports National MLB Insider Russell Dorsey explains why this could be the year for Baltimore to make a significant move.
Video Transcript:
Hey everyone, Russ Dorsey, National MLB Insider for Yahoo Sports here. We’re just seven weeks away from the trade deadline, and one team that should consider making a big move is the Baltimore Orioles. Currently, they’re in second place in the AL East, boasting an MVP-caliber player in Gunnar Henderson and a strong starting rotation led by Corbin Burnes. After losing All-Star closer Felix Bautista to a torn UCL late last season, they’ve turned to Craig Kimbrel as their closer.
However, if the Orioles want to make a deep postseason run and aim for their first World Series since 1983, they likely need a more reliable option for the ninth inning. Should the St. Louis Cardinals decide to sell, Ryan Helsley might be available.
The Orioles still have the top farm system in Major League Baseball, even after promoting productive players like Colton Cowser, Jordan Westburg, Adley Rutschman, and Gunnar Henderson. Their farm system remains strong with prospects like Jackson Holliday, Heston Kjerstad, Connor Norby, and Coby Mayo. This depth gives them the assets to make a major trade.
While I don’t expect them to trade a prospect like Jackson Holliday, I do believe they could package other prospects for the right deal. If it means enhancing their chances for a deep postseason run and a shot at the World Series, it’s a risk worth taking. After all, not every prospect will make it to the big leagues with their organization.
The Orioles are in a good spot, playing excellent baseball, and possess the prospect capital to make a significant move. The right trade could be the key difference between an early playoff exit and a deep October run.