The Baltimore Orioles are gearing up for an intriguing offseason, with eyes on bolstering their rotation. Picture this: a potential addition of a starter, especially if Corbin Burnes exits during free agency.
Until the dust settles with Burnes, uncertainty hovers over Baltimore’s pitching plans. Regardless of where the chips fall with the right-handed Burnes, the Orioles’ strategy should include signing at least one key arm.
Should Burnes decide to rejoin the California native might need just one extra pitcher, which would be an ideal scenario.
The Orioles might be inclined to explore budget-friendly starter options, freeing up resources for a potential trade involving a high-cost pitcher or ensuring they can secure Burnes once more. One name floating in the ether is Luis Severino, once a cornerstone for the New York Yankees.
After overcoming past hurdles, Severino showcased resilience in a comeback season, which revived his value significantly. He penned a one-year prove-it contract and delivered a solid 3.91 ERA, racking up 182 innings – the third-highest in his career.
Production like that, even if shy of All-Star flash, often merits a rewarding contract.
Jim Bowden from The Athletic anticipates that Severino might command a $32 million contract spread over two years – a reasonable investment for what he brings to the table.
Severino’s stats from last season offer a glimpse into his resurgence: an 11-7 record, 3.91 ERA across 31 starts, and 161 strikeouts in 182 innings. Notably, his postseason performance was commendable too, boasting a 3.24 ERA over 16 2/3 innings, making him all the more enticing in the free-agent market.
Signing Severino makes sense for Baltimore on multiple fronts. He’d slot in nicely as a mid-rotation workhorse.
The Orioles know too well the value of innings eaters, especially after navigating a season fraught with injuries on the mound. While Severino has faced setbacks of his own due to injuries, his current health status appears robust, and at just 30, he has plenty left in the tank.
Severino’s familiarity with the American League East adds a layer of comfort, even if it’s not a game-changing factor.
A healthy and formidable Severino could serve as an excellent No. 3 starter, and considering the projected cost, Baltimore would be well-advised to consider him as a valuable addition.
