As expected, the Baltimore Orioles’ roster looks quite different following the MLB trade deadline. Mike Elias was busy as he used to the deadline to essentially move any player who wasn’t factored into the team’s long-term plans. While the timeline may have shifted, it was a successful trading season for the Orioles’ General Manager.

With the deadline in the rearview mirror, the next goal for Elias should be to get a look at players who could factor into the team’s plans for 2026. While the prospects the Orioles received in most of their deals don’t reflect a vision of contending next season, Elias certainly will need to if he wants to remain in his role.

These 3 Orioles escaped the deadline but not for long

With that in mind, there are players currently on the roster who almost certainly shouldn’t be come September. September is when rosters expand, and the Orioles can look to a prospect or two who could have an important role on the 2026 roster.

Luis Vazquez, Infielder

After the Orioles traded Ramon Urias to the Houston Astros, in theory, the utility role is open for the 2026 roster. Luis Vazquez almost certainly won’t get that role. Vazquez is a glove-first infielder, and his bat has yet to make a case for him to be on the Major League roster.

If the Orioles are looking to contend in 2026, replacing Ramon Urias on the roster will be an important part of their roster construction. Vazquez almost certainly won’t be the answer.

Alex Jackson, Catcher

Adley Rutschman is back on the Orioles’ roster following his injury, and honestly, we may already be on offseason trade watch. That said, Rutschman isn’t going anywhere during the season.

One of the reasons why Rutschman could be on the move this winter is that the top prospect in the Orioles’ system is Samuel Basallo.

Basallo’s bat is ready for the Major League level, and Elias should be fired on the spot if he doesn’t give him a look before the end of the season. Once he does, it stands to reason that Jackson will be the odd man out.

Yennier Cano, Relief Pitcher

Assuming the Orioles want to give a look to some of their younger arms before the end of the season, it stands to reason that Yennier Cano’s roster spot will be up for grabs. The 31-year-old veteran has options remaining, so he doesn’t have to be designated for assignment, but his 5.40 ERA on the season says all that you need to know about his future with the team.