The Baltimore Orioles entered the offseason with a laundry list of needs, particularly in their pitching rotation. They were linked to nearly every available pitcher, whether through free agency or potential trades.
While some big discussions didn't pan out, and hefty offers were declined, the Orioles managed to bolster their lineup with several starters, relievers, and power hitters. However, a few missed opportunities could have further solidified their roster.
Framber Valdez: The One That Got Away
Framber Valdez was heavily rumored to be heading to Baltimore until the Tigers swooped in. The Orioles had shown significant interest, even meeting with Valdez during the GM meetings.
Ultimately, they opted to offer Ranger Suarez a $125 million deal, allowing Valdez to sign with Detroit for $115 million. Valdez would have been a crucial addition, providing stability to a rotation that relies heavily on Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers, both of whom have struggled with durability.
Valdez's track record is impressive, averaging 30 starts per season with a 3.21 ERA and 3.29 FIP over the last four years. His consistent performance would have been invaluable.
Jojo Romero: A Lefty Specialist in Demand
With Chaim Bloom at the helm, the Cardinals became aggressive sellers, offloading many veterans. The Orioles were keen on acquiring lefty reliever Jojo Romero, but the Cardinals chose to retain him, possibly eyeing a more lucrative deal at the trade deadline.
Romero would have been a perfect fit for the Orioles, who lack a reliable left-handed option in their bullpen. While Grant Wolfram has shown promise in spring training, his career ERA over five leaves room for doubt.
Romero, on the other hand, boasts a 2.70 ERA over the past two seasons across 130 appearances, making him a proven asset.
Tatsuya Imai: The Enigma
Tatsuya Imai was a hot topic this offseason, with expectations of a nine-figure contract. However, he eventually signed a short-term deal with the Astros, complete with an opt-out after one year.
The Orioles reportedly expressed interest, but Imai remains a bit of a wildcard. He could emerge as a Cy Young contender, making his contract look like a steal, or he could falter, leaving the Astros with a hefty commitment.
The Orioles' decision to "check in" on Imai reflects their cautious approach to this intriguing prospect.
In summary, while the Orioles made strides in strengthening their roster, these missed opportunities highlight the fine margins in building a competitive team. Each of these players offered something unique that could have elevated Baltimore's 2026 season outlook.