The Baltimore Orioles are casting an eye over the market for a right-handed hitting outfielder this offseason. Think of names like Teoscar Hernandez or Tyler O’Neill—both appealing targets if Anthony Santander doesn’t return to the fold.

Beyond that, they’re exploring the idea of adding a reserve or platoon right-handed bat to round out their outfield. Daz Cameron, who recently rejoined the organization in a deal with the Athletics, is in the mix.

Cameron, a favorite from the Mike Elias era in Houston, has shown prowess against left-handed pitchers and pairs that with commendable defensive skills. These attributes could see him carving out a niche role from the bench.

Yet, the Orioles seem intent on keeping their options open, even considering a potential upgrade or friendly competition during spring training through the Rule 5 draft.

While raiding the Rule 5 draft for a right-handed hitting outfielder might not be the most conventional route for Baltimore, it’s a door that’s slightly ajar. The challenge lies in whether they might take a risk on high-upside talent with some room for growth. Two compelling prospects available in this year’s Rule 5 draft could tempt the Orioles into action.

First up on the radar is Minnesota Twins’ young outfielder Kala’i Rosario. This 22-year-old Hawaiian, once a fifth-round draft pick, remains a prospect despite not being snapped up for the Twins’ 40-man roster.

In his 2023 High-A stint, Rosario was nothing short of spectacular, slamming 21 home runs and tallying 51 extra-base hits for a stellar .831 OPS and a wRC+ of 133. Sure, his strikeout rate lingered at 29.6%, but he balanced that with a 14% walk rate and serious power numbers.

Injuries interrupted his progress in 2024, limiting him to 67 games and a .235 average at the Double-A level, but his performance in the Arizona Fall League, where he hit .291 with a .383 OBP, underscored his health resurgence. Alongside his eye-catching power, Rosario sports a potent outfield arm and is ranked 19th among Twins prospects according to MLB Pipeline.

Primarily facing lefties, Rosario could fit snugly into a platoon role at Baltimore. With guidance from Baltimore’s hitting coaches Cody Asche, Tommy Joseph, and Sherman Johnson, he could blossom into a meaningful big-league bat.

Joining the discussion is Chicago Cubs’ Christian Franklin, another Rule 5 candidate. The 25-year-old Franklin, drafted in the fourth round out of Arkansas, shares a collegiate past with current Orioles outfielder Heston Kjerstad.

After a knee injury sidelined him in 2022, Franklin resumed his growth spurt across multiple minor league levels, landing 98 games in Double-A action in 2024. He recorded a .268 average with a standout .398 OBP, five homers, and a wRC+ of 135, demonstrating a keen eye with a 20% strikeout and a 16.6% walk rate.

His speed, highlighted by 34 stolen bases, adds another dimension to his profile. Though Franklin’s throwing arm and in-game power don’t quite match Rosario’s, his 90th percentile exit velocity and elite swing decisions, per Baseball America, make him an appealing prospect.

Baltimore has a knack for fine-tuning players with Franklin’s skill set, turning potential into production. With their adept hitting development program, the Orioles could potentially unlock Franklin’s untapped power.

Ultimately, while the Orioles might abstain from participating in the major league phase of the Rule 5 draft, the option to bet on a fresh bench or platoon asset remains on the table. Whether it’s Rosario’s raw power and arm or Franklin’s contact skill and speed, the Orioles could find a jewel waiting to be polished in this draft. Whether Baltimore makes a move or chooses to stand pat, the possibilities present this offseason are intriguing for the organization looking to bolster its lineup.