The Baltimore Orioles aren’t just dipping their toes into the deep end of the pitching market this offseason - they’re diving in headfirst. Coming off a headline-grabbing trade for Pete Alonso and a bullpen boost with Ryan Helsley, Baltimore is clearly operating with purpose. This is a team that knows its window is wide open, and it’s acting like it.
Now, with the offense looking more potent and the bullpen upgraded, the next logical step is reinforcing the rotation - and that’s exactly where Michael King enters the picture.
King, one of the more intriguing names on the free-agent market, has been consistently linked to the Orioles. And for good reason.
He’s the kind of arm that fits what Baltimore is looking for: upside, versatility, and a track record of growth. The Orioles aren’t alone in their interest - the Yankees and Red Sox are reportedly in the mix as well - but recent rumblings suggest Boston may be gaining ground.
According to the latest from MASN’s Roch Kubatko, the Orioles are very much still in the hunt for King, but the Red Sox might have the inside track. And it’s not just about money or team fit - geography could be playing a role here.
King is a Rhode Island native and a Boston College alum, so there’s a natural pull toward Fenway. That kind of homegrown connection can carry weight, especially when the offers are close.
Still, don’t count Baltimore out. The Orioles made a strong impression during their pitch to Alonso - a deal that many around the league didn’t see coming.
If they bring the same energy and vision to the table with King, they’ve got a real shot. This front office has shown it can be persuasive when it matters.
But here’s the good news for Orioles fans: it’s not Michael King or bust. The rotation market is still full of quality arms, both in free agency and via trade.
Baltimore has options, and they’re not in a position where they need to overextend for one guy. That said, King does check a lot of boxes - and if the price is right, he could be a perfect fit for what the Orioles are building.
As the offseason unfolds, this is a storyline worth watching. The Orioles have already made a statement with their early moves. Adding a starter like King would only reinforce that this team isn’t here to simply compete - they’re aiming to contend, and they’re building a roster that can do exactly that.