The Baltimore Orioles came into the season with high expectations, but their pitching staff struggled so much that their season fell apart in front of everybody’s eyes.
With that in mind, the Orioles are likely to be sellers ahead of the trade deadline, and they have a few key pieces they could move. Baltimore’s core is still very young and talented, but there are a few veterans on expiring deals who should be traded.
The Athletic’s Jim Bowden recently revealed that he and a group of MLB executives believe the Orioles will look to trade slugger Ryan O’Hearn this season.
“If the Orioles become sellers, O’Hearn could end up being the trade deadline headliner for Baltimore,” Bowden wrote. “A soon-to-be free agent, he is slashing .295/.383/.473 with 11 home runs and 30 RBIs in 244 at-bats, which is similar to Naylor’s season, as are his most likely landing spots. O’Hearn’s best position is DH, but he can play first base and left field as well. The 31-year-old is making only $8 million this year, which enhances his trade value.”
Trading O’Hearn is an obvious move for the Orioles to make. The market won’t be too hot for him, considering he’s a designated hitter over all else, but his ability to play first base and outfield should help his cause.
Teams like the Cincinnati Reds have been mentioned as trade landing spots. The Boston Red Sox need a first baseman, but it may be unlikely for the Orioles to trade a slugger within the division.
Either way, a trade involving O’Hearn should be expected this season.
