Orioles’ Aggressive Offseason Could Still Have One Final Splash: Framber Valdez

The Baltimore Orioles entered the offseason facing an uncomfortable reality. Just one year after winning 100 games and returning to the postseason with one of baseball’s most exciting young cores, the Orioles took a noticeable step backward. Expectations were high, but inconsistency, pitching struggles, and missed opportunities ultimately led to a disappointing campaign.

That regression triggered change—and Baltimore responded decisively.

A New Voice at the Top

The first major signal that the Orioles were serious about a reset came with a change in leadership.

“The Orioles’ search for a new manager is over,” MLB.com’s Jake Rill reported. “Baltimore has hired Cleveland associate manager Craig Albernaz to become its skipper.”

The hiring of Albernaz reflects Baltimore’s commitment to modern player development, communication, and accountability. Known for his work with Cleveland’s pitching staff and clubhouse culture, Albernaz arrives at a time when the Orioles believe their competitive window is very much open—but must be handled carefully.

With a new manager in place, the front office wasted little time reshaping the roster.

Orioles Go All-In Early in the Offseason

Baltimore has been one of the most aggressive teams of the offseason, making several high-profile additions aimed at addressing weaknesses that were exposed last season.

Among the biggest moves:

• Pete Alonso, adding elite power and postseason experience

• Ryan Helsley, strengthening the bullpen with a proven late-inning arm

• Zach Eflin, providing stability to the starting rotation

• Leody Tavares, improving outfield defense and athleticism

Each signing addressed a specific need, signaling that the Orioles are no longer content to simply develop talent—they are now focused on winning now.

Baltimore also stayed active on the trade market.

Orioles Add Infield Depth with Bryan Ramos Trade

Recently, the Orioles acquired infielder Bryan Ramos from the Chicago White Sox, continuing their trend of targeting young, controllable talent with upside.

“The Orioles have acquired infielder Bryan Ramos from the White Sox,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Mark Polishuk reported. “Baltimore has officially announced the trade, and the Sox will get cash considerations in return. To open up a 40-man spot for Ramos, the Orioles designated Weston Wilson for assignment.”

Ramos, a former top prospect with MLB experience, fits the Orioles’ developmental model perfectly. He doesn’t need to be an immediate contributor, but he offers flexibility, depth, and long-term value at minimal cost.

With that move, many assumed Baltimore’s offseason was complete.

Not everyone agrees.

Why Framber Valdez Still Makes Sense for Baltimore

According to FanSided’s Zachary Rotman, the Orioles may still be positioning themselves for one final—and potentially franchise-altering—addition: Framber Valdez.

“There’s a reason the Baltimore Orioles have been considered favorites to sign Valdez all offseason,” Rotman wrote. “They have everything he could want.”

Rotman outlined several compelling factors working in Baltimore’s favor:

• Mike Elias, the Orioles’ general manager, previously scouted for the Houston Astros when Valdez signed with the organization in 2015

• A roster that has already been significantly upgraded this offseason

• A clear need for a reliable, high-volume starter after rotation struggles in 2025

The fit is hard to ignore.

The Need for an Inning-Eater in the AL East

Baltimore competes in what many consider the toughest division in baseball. The New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays all feature deep lineups and postseason aspirations. Surviving the AL East requires pitching depth, durability, and consistency.

That’s where Valdez stands out.

Valdez checks every box the Orioles are searching for:

• Left-handed starter

• Proven innings-eater

• World Series champion

• Playoff-tested

• Ground-ball specialist, ideal for Camden Yards

Baltimore’s rotation showed flashes last season, but lacked consistency and durability. Adding Valdez would immediately stabilize the staff and reduce pressure on younger arms.

Leadership and Experience Matter

Beyond the numbers, Valdez brings something Baltimore’s roster still lacks in key moments: championship experience.

With a clubhouse dominated by young, talented players, adding a veteran who has pitched on the biggest stages could have a ripple effect across the roster. Valdez’s presence would:

• Provide leadership in the rotation

• Mentor young pitchers

• Set a standard for preparation and consistency

• Help navigate the grind of a full season in a brutal division

For a team that believes it can contend now, that kind of influence is invaluable.

Will Baltimore Push All the Chips In?

The question is no longer whether Valdez fits—it’s whether the Orioles are willing to do whatever it takes to close the deal.

Signing Valdez would likely require a significant financial commitment, but Baltimore has already demonstrated a willingness to spend. With a young core still largely under team control, the timing makes sense to invest heavily in pitching now.

If the Orioles are serious about reclaiming their place atop the AL East—and avoiding another step backward—adding Framber Valdez could be the final piece.

Final Thoughts

The Orioles’ offseason has already been one of the most impressive in baseball. A new manager, marquee signings, and smart depth moves have reshaped the roster and raised expectations.

But championship windows don’t stay open forever.

Adding Framber Valdez would send a clear message: the Orioles are done building—they’re ready to contend.

In a division where margins are razor-thin, one elite, durable starter could be the difference between another frustrating season and a deep postseason run.