The Baltimore Orioles are heading into free agency as a team to watch, with a lot on the line this offseason. After a successful 2024 campaign, the franchise has big decisions to make.
Gunnar Henderson was a standout player for the Orioles, going from Rookie of the Year in 2023 to a superstar in 2024. However, the team’s success was largely due to their first-half performance, and they struggled after the All-Star break.
With pitcher Corbin Burnes and outfielder Anthony Santander hitting free agency, the Orioles have tough choices to make. New ownership, led by David Rubenstein, may need to open their wallets to retain and bring in free agents.
Losing both Burnes and Santander is a possibility, and even if the Orioles keep Burnes, they may need additional help in the rotation. Two young starters, Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells, will miss part of 2025 due to elbow surgery.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report suggests that the Orioles could be a good fit for Max Scherzer, a veteran pitcher with high upside. Signing Scherzer would be a one-year stopgap solution to bolster the rotation.
Scherzer is a Cy Young winner, but his health is a concern. He dealt with a herniated disc in his back and a nerve issue that forced him to change his arm slot late in the season.
Despite the health concerns, pursuing Scherzer makes sense for Baltimore. A one-year deal wouldn’t hamper future plans, and adding Scherzer would create pitching depth, which would have been useful last season.
The Orioles have a reputation for not spending much money, but new ownership may be willing to change that. Retaining Burnes and bringing in Scherzer would be a significant investment in the team’s future.
If the Orioles can sign Scherzer, it would be a coup for the franchise. He would bring experience and talent to the rotation, and his presence would help alleviate the loss of Bradish and Wells.
In conclusion, the Baltimore Orioles have a lot to consider this offseason, but pursuing Max Scherzer could be a smart move to bolster their rotation and make a push for the playoffs in 2025.
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