The Baltimore Orioles kicked off the year with high hopes, but their season took a tough turn in the second half. Now, the focus shifts to re-strategizing and finding ways to set the stage for a postseason push.
This might mean considering a shuffle of their veteran roster to inject fresh talent into areas that need a boost. Among the trade chatter, Ryan Mountcastle and Jorge Mateo have emerged as potential movers, according to CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa.
Mountcastle stands as the more valuable of the two on the open market. Since joining the Orioles’ main roster in 2020, he’s been a steady presence at the plate, clocking a .265/.316/.450 slugging line.
His reliability isn’t a flash in the pan but rather a testament to his consistent output. His latest season saw him notch a .271/.308/.425 slash line, complete with 13 homers and 63 RBIs.
While he hasn’t quite ascended to the anticipated 25-homer benchmark, his bat remains vital, and he holds his own on the field. The potential interest from other clubs could allow Baltimore to find a trade deal aligning with their broader team goals.
Though Jorge Mateo might not attract the same level of trade capital, his specific skill set could prove appealing to certain squads. At 29, Mateo’s overall hitting stats might not jump off the page, but his prowess against left-handed pitching – reflected in his .262/.311/.488 line – presents a niche value.
Currently on the mend from elbow surgery, which sidelines him for the bulk of the offseason, Mateo’s versatility around the diamond and his base-running chops enhance his appeal to teams looking to bolster an already strong lineup. Whether he stays with the Orioles or finds new digs, Mateo’s next steps will be intriguing to watch.
Ultimately, whether they decide to make moves or hold tight, the Orioles are in a position to tailor their roster to better meet their competitive ambitions. The offseason decisions could significantly influence their trajectory as they eye another chance to shine on the postseason stage.
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