The Orioles certainly made waves this offseason, diving headfirst into the action with a flurry of moves. Let's break down what this means for the team as they gear up for the new season.
First off, adding Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward is a power move, literally. Alonso's presence in the lineup is like injecting a shot of adrenaline, bringing the kind of pop that the Orioles were missing in 2025. Meanwhile, Blaze Alexander's late addition offers that much-needed versatility in the field, giving the team more options to maneuver around injuries or slumps.
On the pitching front, the Orioles have bolstered their bullpen with Ryan Helsley and Andrew Kittredge. While Helsley had a rocky second half with the Mets, there's hope that a change of scenery will bring out his best.
The rotation, now featuring Zach Eflin and Chris Bassitt, gains depth and reliability. Shane Baz is an intriguing prospect, one that the Orioles are clearly excited about for the future.
However, the offseason wasn't without its hiccups. The Orioles aimed for a marquee ace to headline their rotation but fell short.
While the rotation is stronger, it lacks that standout arm that can dominate a playoff series. The bullpen, despite new additions, remains a question mark, particularly with Helsley's recent struggles.
Injuries to Jordan Westburg and Jackson Holliday also cast a shadow over the lineup's readiness.
So, how do we grade Mike Elias' offseason efforts? A solid B+ seems fitting.
The Alonso signing is a statement, signaling the Orioles' intent to compete right now. It’s a move that resonates both within the clubhouse and across the league.
While the rotation didn't snag a superstar, it boasts six bona fide big-league arms, including Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers, who have both flirted with Cy Young contention. The bullpen might still need a steady veteran presence, but that's something that can be addressed as the season progresses.
In summary, the Orioles are setting the stage for an exciting season. With a few more tweaks, they could be a force to reckon with. Keep an eye on this team; they might just surprise us all.