Just before the 2018 trade deadline, the Baltimore Orioles traded away six players, including franchise cornerstone Manny Machado, in exchange for a prospect-heavy return. This marked the beginning of an extensive rebuilding process, which included the hiring of general manager Mike Elias months later, several top draft picks, and the construction of MLB’s deepest and most talented farm system.
That rebuild proved successful. The Orioles returned to the postseason last year, were sold to an ownership group focused on winning, and currently have the third-most wins in MLB. The process that began in 2018 has resulted in a team with a clear World Series opportunity. Now, Elias faces a different kind of trade deadline test six years after his predecessors initiated a fire sale.
“I’ve got a sense of urgency to win baseball games,” he said regarding this year’s deadline. “We’re looking at the whole picture when it comes to the trade deadline—our team’s status, our health, potential upgrades, and market conditions. Which teams are selling, and what are they asking for?” The Orioles will be buyers, and Elias might pursue various improvements, from adding an outfielder to bolstering the bullpen. However, last season’s playoff sweep highlights the clear need for the next step toward the World Series.
The Baltimore Orioles Need to Address Pitching Depth
The Orioles led the American League West division with 65 wins going into last season’s trade deadline, made a minor addition by trading for pitcher Jack Flaherty, and were swept in the AL Division Series due to struggles with their starting staff. Elias addressed that weakness significantly during the offseason by trading prospects to acquire former Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers.
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