The Baltimore Orioles aren’t just dipping their toes into the offseason waters - they’re diving in headfirst. After a breakout 2025 campaign, the O’s are clearly signaling they’re ready to make a serious run, and their early moves back that up in a big way.
They kicked things off by swinging a deal for Taylor Ward from the Angels, adding a proven bat with pop and plate discipline to an already potent lineup. Then came Leody Taveras, a dynamic outfielder who brings defensive range and speed to the mix - a nice complement to Baltimore’s power core.
And the bullpen? Reinforced with the addition of Ryan Helsley, a high-octane arm who gives them a legitimate late-inning weapon.
But the biggest splash so far? That belongs to Pete Alonso.
The Orioles locked up the slugging first baseman on a five-year, $155 million deal - a bold move that sends a clear message: this team isn’t content with being good. They want to be great.
Alonso’s presence in the heart of the lineup adds serious thump and veteran leadership to a young, hungry roster. It’s the kind of move that can shift the balance of power in the American League.
Still, even with all that firepower, there’s one area that could use a little more attention: the starting rotation.
Right now, the Orioles are leaning on a top duo of Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish. When healthy, that combo has the stuff to go toe-to-toe with just about anyone.
But health has been an issue, especially for Bradish, who’s coming off back-to-back injury-shortened seasons. That raises a fair question: can he be counted on as a true No.
2?
That’s where Michael King enters the conversation.
King, a former Yankee, is generating buzz as a potential fit in Baltimore - and for good reason. He’s coming off a season where he made 15 starts, posting a 5-3 record with a 3.44 ERA over 73.1 innings.
That’s solid production, especially considering he transitioned from the bullpen to the rotation. He’s shown he can handle the workload, mix pitches effectively, and keep hitters off balance with a deep arsenal.
For the Orioles, King wouldn’t just be a depth piece - he could be the missing link. Whether he slots in as a No. 2 or No. 3 starter, he’d bring stability and upside to a rotation that needs both. And in a division as competitive as the AL East, that kind of arm can be the difference between a postseason berth and an early October exit.
Baltimore’s front office has already made aggressive, calculated moves to build a contender. Adding King would be another smart step - one that could round out a roster already brimming with talent and ambition.
The Orioles are building something special. And if they can shore up that rotation? Watch out.