With young prospects maturing into legitimate major league stars, the Baltimore Orioles are now strong contenders for the division and the World Series. The team is in its best position yet to make significant trade deadline upgrades during the Mike Elias era. Unlike the previous two years, Elias and the Orioles’ front office seem ready to make substantial additions to center field.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that Baltimore is “on the lookout for a center fielder” due to Cedric Mullins’s struggles. Backup Colton Cowser has been inconsistent with the bat and may be better suited for a corner outfield spot.
Harrison Bader is an elite 2 hitter pic.twitter.com/WVVvLMzLPh
— Mets'd Up Podcast (@MetsdUp) June 12, 2024
Baltimore Orioles Seeking Center Field Upgrades
Despite his offensive struggles (.189/.240/.323), Mullins adds value with his fielding and speed, boasting one Defensive Run Saved and three Outs Above Average in 500 1/3 innings this season. However, his 0.0 fWAR shows his defense and baserunning are negated by poor offense. The Orioles, who control Mullins through 2025, might still use him as a defensive replacement or pinch-runner. But to push for a championship, upgrading center field’s offensive output is crucial.
Nightengale suggests the Orioles are moving in this direction, and the timing is ideal. The trade market offers solid outfield bats, and Baltimore’s farm system has enough prospects to secure a significant upgrade. Nightengale didn’t specify targets, but potential candidates include:
Luis Robert Jr. – The Chicago White Sox are expected to make players available, and Robert Jr. is a notable option. Despite his talent, he has an injury history and inconsistent plate discipline. Nevertheless, Robert Jr.’s career stats (.275/.323/.501 with 14 DRS and 26 OAA) make him a strong candidate.
JJ Bleday and Jazz Chisholm Jr. – These non-established but high-potential players from the Oakland Athletics and Miami Marlins, respectively, could fit well with the Orioles. Both have shown promise but lack a long track record of success.
Older Veterans Having Solid Seasons – The Orioles might also consider veteran players like Kevin Pillar (Los Angeles Angels) and Harrison Bader (New York Mets). Pillar is having an impressive offensive season, while Bader offers strong defense and experience in high-pressure situations.
Mariners announcers: " Luis Robert Jr. is going to pinch hit. Be careful."
Luis Robert: Hits game-tying home run on the first pitch 😅
(via @ROOTSPORTS_NW) pic.twitter.com/9HgAb8gmf6
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) June 13, 2024
A strategic move could involve acquiring both a center fielder and a pitcher, such as Luis Severino from the Mets along with Bader. This approach could address multiple needs with one deal.
Overall, the Orioles are wisely exploring various options to enhance their center field position as they aim for a deep postseason run.
