The Orioles didn’t land either of their reported pitching targets-Ranger Suárez or Framber Valdez-but team president of baseball operations Mike Elias isn’t losing sleep over it. In fact, he sounds pretty confident in the rotation they’ve built heading into spring training.
“We have a very good rotation,” Elias said during a video conference call with reporters. And looking at the names, it’s easy to see why he feels that way.
Zach Eflin is back after being re-signed in free agency. Shane Baz was a major trade acquisition.
Kyle Bradish returns healthy and ready for a full season. Trevor Rogers is coming off a strong campaign.
Dean Kremer adds more depth, and there’s a group of young arms-Brandon Young and Cade Povich among them-that could push for innings. It’s a mix of proven talent, upside, and depth-exactly what you want heading into a long season.
Sure, the Orioles missed out on some big names. Justin Verlander, who had been loosely linked to Baltimore, inked a one-year deal with Detroit.
Valdez, another reported target, also landed in Motown on a three-year, $115 million contract. But Elias made it clear: the O’s aren’t closing the door on more moves just yet.
“We’re staying plugged in with the trade and free agent markets,” Elias said. “There’s still a possibility for external additions.”
Pitchers and catchers have reported, and the first workout is set for Wednesday. So while the clock is ticking, Elias isn’t ruling out a late signing-though he’s realistic about the challenges that come with those.
“Late signings can be tricky,” Elias noted. “Historically, they tend to not work out as well as those that happen earlier.”
He pointed to last spring’s late addition of Kyle Gibson, who struggled mightily in a short stint. The lesson?
Timing matters, especially when it comes to pitchers ramping up for a 162-game grind.
Still, Elias emphasized that the Orioles are in a good place. “I think we have a very good team as it stands right now, and it’s one that’s capable of winning this division,” he said. “We’ve just got to put in the work.”
Blaze Alexander Adds Versatility
The Orioles also made a quiet but potentially impactful move last week, acquiring utility infielder Blaze Alexander from Arizona in exchange for reliever Kade Strowd and two prospects.
Elias sees Alexander as a strong fit for a roster that needed more infield flexibility after parting ways with Ramón Urías and Jorge Mateo.
“Blaze Alexander is a very talented player,” Elias said. “He’s got a lot of physical tools, can play basically every position on the diamond except catcher, hits from the right side, and can run.”
That kind of versatility is gold in today’s game. Alexander can handle every infield spot, provide outfield coverage if needed, and bring some offensive upside to the bench. He’s not just depth-he’s the type of utility player who can make a difference over the course of a long season.
Coby Mayo’s Role in Flux
The Orioles’ recent addition of Pete Alonso at first base has created a bit of a logjam. With Ryan Mountcastle and Coby Mayo also in the mix, something’s got to give.
Elias acknowledged that Mayo’s role is still being worked out, but it’s clear the club wants to explore his versatility.
“I do expect that we’re going to see him in places other than first base,” Elias said. “But first base will continue to be something we’re emphasizing with him.”
Mayo’s bat is intriguing, and the Orioles seem intent on finding a way to get it into the lineup-even if it means trying him in the outfield or rotating him through multiple positions.
Sugano Heads to Colorado
Meanwhile, pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano, who spent last season with the Orioles, has signed a one-year, $5.1 million deal with the Colorado Rockies. His departure frees up another spot in the pitching staff, but with the depth Elias has assembled, the Orioles appear well-positioned to absorb the loss.
Bottom line: Baltimore may not have made the splashiest moves this offseason, but they’ve built a roster with depth, flexibility, and upside. And with Elias keeping the door open for more additions, the Orioles aren’t done yet.