Baltimore Orioles Relentless in Offseason, Balancing Big Names and Depth Moves
The Baltimore Orioles aren’t just busy this offseason—they’re relentless. With GM Mike Elias and the front office leading the charge, the organization has approached the offseason with purpose, vision, and a clear appetite for roster upgrades.
While the marquee signings, like the headline-grabbing addition of Pete Alonso, have dominated headlines, it’s the steady stream of depth acquisitions and roster shuffles that reveal the Orioles’ long-term plan: building a complete, versatile team capable of competing in the AL East.
Eric Torres Adds Left-Handed Depth
Baltimore’s latest move highlights that approach: left-handed pitcher Eric Torres was signed to a minor league contract and assigned to Triple-A Norfolk. While Torres isn’t a household name, he’s a savvy depth addition, and in a league where pitching attrition is inevitable, these kinds of moves often pay dividends over a 162-game season.
Torres, 26, was drafted in the 14th round by the Angels in 2021 out of Kansas State. His 2024 season was split between Double-A and Triple-A, with contrasting results:
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Double-A: Dominant, posting a 2.31 ERA with 55 strikeouts in just 35 innings.
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Triple-A: Struggled in a brief stint, giving up seven runs and 11 walks in just over seven innings.
Afterward, Torres took a detour through independent ball, where he was nearly untouchable, recording a 1.59 ERA with 16 saves in 39 appearances. He then carried that momentum into the Puerto Rican Winter League, tossing 23 1/3 scoreless innings with 39 strikeouts and just six hits allowed.
It’s that kind of performance—consistent, high-leverage innings in multiple environments—that earned him another look from the Orioles.
Baltimore’s left-handed bullpen depth is thin, with only three left-handed arms on the 40-man roster: Keegan Akin, Dietrich Enns, and Grant Wolfram. Adding Torres provides another option for matchups and flexibility, even if he isn’t expected to immediately shoulder high-leverage innings.
Rotation Still the Top Priority
While bullpen depth is important, the front of the rotation remains the Orioles’ primary focus. Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers are penciled in as the team’s 1-2 punch, and the recent signing of Zach Eflin provides additional stability. Still, Elias is actively seeking top-of-the-rotation talent to complement the existing rotation.
The Orioles have made it clear they’re willing to swing big:
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The acquisition of Pete Alonso signaled their willingness to make high-profile moves for impact players.
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The trade for Shane Baz from the Tampa Bay Rays shows the front office isn’t afraid to move assets for top pitching talent.
Rumors continue to swirl around free-agent starters like Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, and Baltimore’s willingness to engage in trades or high-value deals indicates the team wants more firepower at the top of the rotation before spring training begins.
Bullpen Moves Still in Progress
The Orioles’ bullpen is shaping up, but there’s still room for improvement. Ryan Helsley is locked in as the closer, and Andrew Kittredge is expected to be a key setup arm. However, another high-leverage lefty or multi-inning option could significantly strengthen the late-inning group.
Some minor league arms are in the mix:
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Albert Suárez was signed to a minor league deal and could compete for a role.
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Tyler Wells might shift back into the bullpen to provide additional depth and length.
Even with these moves, the bullpen still feels like it’s missing a piece to give Baltimore a true high-leverage, late-inning dominance.
Position Player Updates: Alonso and Noel
On the offensive side, Pete Alonso is the biggest winter splash, expected to anchor the lineup and provide proven power production. But other recent acquisitions, like Jhonkensy Noel, are aimed more at depth and upside than immediate impact.
Noel, who turns 25 in July, has shown flashes of power potential but carries a career .193/.242/.401 line across 136 big-league games. With no remaining minor league options, this spring training could be a make-or-break opportunity for him.
There is some familiarity with the new coaching staff: Noel worked with Craig Albernaz, the new Orioles manager, when both were with the Guardians. His right-handed bat and ability to play corner outfield or first base provide versatility, but he will need to earn a spot on Baltimore’s Opening Day roster. Without additional roster moves, Noel’s path is far from guaranteed, and a return to waivers is possible if he doesn’t impress in camp.
Balancing Big Names and Strategic Depth
Baltimore’s offseason demonstrates a dual strategy:
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High-profile acquisitions like Alonso signal the team’s willingness to invest in star talent.
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Depth and versatile additions like Eric Torres and Jhonkensy Noel ensure the roster can weather injuries and provide multiple options throughout the season.
The combination of rotation upgrades, bullpen flexibility, and versatile position players shows that Elias is building with both the present and the future in mind.
Looking Ahead to Spring Training 2026
As the Orioles approach spring training, the focus will remain on rotation upgrades and bullpen depth, with Torres providing a safety net for left-handed matchups and Noel competing for a versatile roster spot.
The front office’s aggressive approach sends a clear message: Baltimore isn’t content to enter 2026 with just a competitive roster—they want a complete team. Every move, from high-profile trades to minor league depth signings, reflects an organization committed to sustained success in the AL East.
While the bullpen still feels like it needs a final piece and the rotation search continues, the Orioles have established a blueprint: power, depth, flexibility, and a willingness to swing big when the opportunity arises.
If the team can continue this approach, 2026 could mark the season Baltimore fully capitalizes on its offseason momentum, positioning itself as a legitimate contender while maintaining a roster capable of handling the inevitable challenges of a long MLB campaign.
