The Baltimore Orioles are navigating some early-season challenges as they aim to improve on last year's 75-87 finish. Injuries have hit their infield hard, with key players set to miss the start of the regular season. This situation has sparked discussions about potential trades to bolster their lineup.
The Orioles are particularly concerned about their infield depth. Second baseman Jackson Holliday is sidelined after undergoing surgery for a broken hamate bone. Meanwhile, third baseman Jordan Westburg faces a longer recovery due to a partially torn UCL revealed by an MRI.
In light of these setbacks, there's talk of Baltimore reaching out to the Houston Astros about acquiring third baseman Isaac Paredes. Paredes, 27, is an intriguing option.
Despite battling his own injury issues last season with a partially torn right hamstring, he managed to appear in 102 games and has been an All-Star for the past two years. His versatility across multiple infield positions adds to his appeal.
While Paredes has had some defensive inconsistencies, his plate discipline and power make him a significant asset. With the potential to hit 30 home runs in a season, he could provide the offensive boost the Orioles need.
As the Astros continue to refine their lineup, the Orioles might find an opportunity to strike a deal that could help them weather their early injury storm and set the stage for a stronger season.