Offseason Moves and Free Agency Losses
The Baltimore Orioles have been relatively quiet during the offseason, opting for a series of smaller moves rather than blockbuster signings or trades. However, their inactivity in the realm of significant acquisitions has been overshadowed by the departures of key players. Notably, they lost ace pitcher Corbin Burnes and slugger Anthony Santander to free agency, two irreplaceable assets that leave sizable holes in their roster. Burnes, a Cy Young nominee and a dominant presence on the mound, was a cornerstone of their starting rotation. Santander, on the other hand, was a powerhouse in the outfield and a vital run-producer. These losses are significant, and the Orioles must now navigate the upcoming season with a roster that lacks some of its former star power.
The Need for an Ace
With Corbin Burnes out of the picture, the Orioles find themselves in a critical position: they need a reliable ace to anchor their starting staff. Charlie Morton and Tomoyuki Sugano, while respectable additions, do not provide the caliber of pitching necessary to challenge the formidable New York Yankees in the American League East. Both pitchers bring valuable experience and have shown the ability to perform at a high level, but they lack the sheer dominance and consistency that an ace like Burnes brought to the team. Baltimore’s pitching depth and overall performance will be crucial, but without a top-tier starter, their chances of contending in a highly competitive division are diminished.
Sonny Gray: A Potential Solution
Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report recently suggested that Baltimore should explore the possibility of trading for Sonny Gray, the St. Louis Cardinals’ right-hander. Gray, who had a standout first season with the Cardinals, went 13-9 with a 3.84 ERA and 203 strikeouts. The Cardinals signed him to a three-year, $75 million contract, indicating their belief in his abilities. Gray has been a consistent performer throughout his career, and his recent success with the Cardinals further solidifies his status as a top-tier pitcher. Rymer’s proposal is intriguing, especially given the Orioles’ need for a veteran presence in their rotation.
Gray’s Trade Protection and Future with St. Louis
One of the key factors complicating a potential trade for Gray is his no-trade protection, which gives him significant control over his future. Despite this, there hasn’t been much buzz around Gray since he was first linked to trade talks in September, as reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Gray himself has expressed a desire to remain with the Cardinals, stating in January that "St. Louis is still where I want to be." However, the dynamics of the MLB can change rapidly, and the Orioles should not write off the possibility of a trade. Gray’s no-trade clause may make him a difficult asset to acquire, but it does not render him completely untradeable.
Contending in 2025 and Beyond
The Orioles’ pursuit of Gray is particularly relevant as they look to contend in 2025 and beyond. The Cardinals, while presently a formidable team, may not be in the same position next year. If they fall under .500 by the trade deadline in 2025, it could be a prudent move for the Cards to field offers and potentially trade Gray to a team like Baltimore that is hungry for a star pitcher. Gray’s experience as a veteran innings eater, combined with his remaining years of contract control, makes him an attractive option for the Orioles. His ability to generate swings and misses, as evidenced by his 203 strikeouts last season, would undoubtedly bolster the Orioles’ pitching staff and provide a much-needed boost in their pursuit of a playoff berth.
The Cost and Benefits of a Trade
While trading for Sonny Gray would come at a significant cost, the benefits could outweigh the price tag. Acquiring a pitcher of his caliber would not only solidify the Orioles’ rotation but also provide the kind of stability and leadership that a contending team needs. The Cardinals, who may be sellers in 2025, could be more open to negotiations if the Orioles can offer a compelling package. The Orioles would need to part with some of their young talent and prospects, but the potential return in the form of Gray’s talent and leadership could make it a worthwhile investment. As the season progresses and the Cardinals’ standings shift, Baltimore should remain proactive in exploring this and other trade possibilities to strengthen their roster and position themselves for future success.
