As the Baltimore Orioles gear up for the winter’s free agency frenzy, the franchise finds itself at a pivotal crossroads following a solid 2024 run.
The Orioles have emerged as regular-season powerhouses over the last two years, a feat that unfortunately hasn’t extended into postseason triumphs, as they failed to secure a win in either of their playoff series in 2023 or 2024.
This offseason, Baltimore faces pivotal decisions, particularly around two key free agents: ace pitcher Corbin Burnes and power-hitting outfielder Anthony Santander.
Both have been instrumental to the Orioles’ regular-season prosperity.
Burnes emerged as the rotation’s stalwart, leading the team in wins, while Santander made his mark as one of MLB’s formidable power threats, launching 44 homers over the fence.
As the free agent market begins to sizzle, the buzz around Burnes and Santander is intense. The spotlight is particularly bright on Burnes, who finds himself at the center of speculative predictions.
Some insiders, such as Zachary D. Rymer, foresee a return to the National League for Burnes, possibly with the New York Mets, on a lucrative seven-year, $210 million deal.
Burnes’ potential connection with the Mets is not just financial; it’s personal. The Mets’ front office leadership now includes former Brewers GM David Stearns, with whom Burnes has previously worked.
Owner Steve Cohen’s financial clout further bolsters the Mets’ allure, positioning them as formidable contenders for Burnes’ signature, especially if they fall short in their pursuit of Juan Soto.
The financial heft Cohen brings to the table means the Mets could conceivably outbid Baltimore for the right-handed Cy Young star. With New York potentially losing most of its 2024 rotation to free agency, there’s an evident need for an infusion of pitching talent.
Though Sean Manaea delivered commendable performances for the Mets last year, Burnes promises a different level of impact at the rotation’s apex.
For Baltimore, retaining Burnes should be a top priority. His departure would leave a void not easily filled.
As tempting offers come calling, the Orioles would be wise to have contingency plans ready, ensuring they remain competitive regardless of where their star pitcher might land.
Keeping Santander is also no small feat, considering his batting prowess is a crucial piece of their offensive puzzle.
With both Burnes and Santander on the market, the Orioles must carefully navigate their off-season strategy, balancing ambition with preparedness.
This openness to dynamic changes could be crucial, allowing Baltimore to maintain an upward trajectory amid the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Baseball.
