The Baltimore Orioles aren’t sitting around licking their wounds after a disappointing 2025 season. Instead, they’re making it crystal clear: they intend to get right back into the thick of the American League playoff race - and fast. After a pair of strong campaigns in 2023 and 2024, the O’s are reloading with purpose this winter, and their recent moves show a front office that’s not afraid to be bold.
The biggest headline-grabber so far? Pete Alonso.
The Orioles landed the slugger in free agency, prying him away from the Mets in a move that immediately adds thunder to the heart of their lineup. Alonso’s reputation as one of the premier power hitters in the game speaks for itself - and now he’ll be launching baseballs over the fences at Camden Yards.
That’s a massive statement of intent.
But Baltimore didn’t stop there.
They followed up by swinging a significant trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, acquiring right-hander Shane Baz in exchange for a package of prospects. Heading to Tampa are outfielder Slater de Brun and catcher Caden Bodine - both first-round picks from the 2025 draft - along with pitching prospect Michael Forret, outfielder Austin Overn, and a Round A draft selection. That’s a sizable haul, no question, but Baz brings serious upside.
The 26-year-old righty is coming off a full season in the Rays’ rotation, where he made 31 starts and logged 166.1 innings. His 10-12 record and 4.87 ERA might not jump off the page, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a pitcher who showed flashes of frontline potential.
Baz struck out 176 batters and showed solid command throughout the year. For a team like the Orioles - looking to stabilize and elevate their rotation - he’s a compelling piece.
And according to league insiders, Baltimore might not be done yet. There’s a strong belief that the Orioles are still in the market for more pitching help. If they can add another reliable arm to the mix, they could be looking at a major turnaround in 2026.
Of course, the Alonso signing wasn’t the only offensive upgrade. The Orioles also brought in Taylor Ward from the Angels - a move that flew a bit under the radar but could pay big dividends.
Ward is coming off a career year, launching 36 homers and driving in 103 runs while appearing in 157 games. That kind of consistency and pop from the outfield is exactly what Baltimore needs to lengthen its lineup and take pressure off its young core.
Put it all together, and this Orioles team is starting to look a lot more dangerous. With Alonso and Ward bringing proven power, and Baz adding depth to the rotation, the pieces are falling into place. If they can land one more arm - and all signs point to them trying - Baltimore could be right back in the postseason conversation.
After a tough 2025, the Orioles aren’t just hoping for a bounce-back. They’re building one.