Braves Ace “Makes Sense” for Orioles as Corbin Burnes Replacement.

**Braves Ace “Makes Sense” for Orioles as Corbin Burnes Replacement**

As the MLB offseason heats up, the Baltimore Orioles find themselves in need of an elite arm to anchor their rotation. After a failed attempt to secure Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers, rumors are swirling about who the Orioles might target next. One intriguing name that has surfaced is the Atlanta Braves’ ace, whose potential fit with the Orioles has sparked discussion among analysts and fans alike.

### Why the Orioles Need an Ace

The Orioles had a breakout 2023 season, making a return to the playoffs and showcasing a talented young core. However, one glaring issue remained: their starting rotation. Despite the team’s success, the Orioles struggled to find a reliable, dominant presence at the top of their rotation. This need became even more apparent in the postseason when the lack of an elite starter hindered their ability to compete against stronger pitching staffs.

Corbin Burnes, a former Cy Young winner, was at the top of the Orioles’ wish list, but after negotiations fell through, the team is now looking at alternative options. Enter the Braves’ ace, who could be the perfect replacement for Burnes and fill the void in Baltimore’s pitching staff.

### The Braves’ Ace: A Logical Fit for Baltimore

The Braves have been one of the most successful teams in recent years, and much of that success has been driven by their strong starting rotation. However, with the Braves boasting depth in their pitching staff, there have been whispers that they might be open to trading one of their aces to address other needs, particularly on offense or in the bullpen.

For the Orioles, acquiring a proven, top-tier pitcher like the Braves’ ace makes perfect sense. His ability to consistently deliver quality starts, paired with his experience in high-pressure situations, would provide Baltimore with the stability they desperately need. Moreover, his contract status and age align well with the Orioles’ long-term plans, making him an ideal candidate to lead the young squad.

### What Could a Trade Look Like?

To acquire a pitcher of this caliber, the Orioles would likely need to part with significant assets, possibly including top prospects or young players from their major league roster. Baltimore’s farm system is one of the best in baseball, which gives them the flexibility to pursue a blockbuster trade without mortgaging their future.

A potential deal could involve one of Baltimore’s top hitting prospects, or even a package that includes both major league-ready talent and high-upside prospects. The Braves, who are looking to sustain their dominance, might be enticed by such a return if they believe it can fill multiple areas of need on their roster.

### Impact on the Orioles

Adding a Braves ace would immediately elevate Baltimore’s rotation to one of the most competitive in the American League. Pairing him with the Orioles’ young pitchers would create a formidable staff, capable of supporting their improving offense. His leadership and experience would also be invaluable for the Orioles’ younger players as they continue to develop and adapt to competing at the highest level.

The Orioles have a golden opportunity to build on their recent success, and landing a pitcher of this caliber would signal to the rest of the league that Baltimore is ready to contend not just for playoff berths, but for championships.

### Braves’ Perspective

For the Braves, parting with an ace would not be easy, but their pitching depth and organizational philosophy make it a potential move worth considering. By addressing multiple roster needs in one trade, the Braves could remain competitive while also securing their long-term future.

If the Orioles offer a compelling enough package, the Braves could pull the trigger on the deal, especially if they believe it strengthens their team in the areas they need most.

### Final Thoughts

While nothing is set in stone, the idea of the Braves’ ace heading to Baltimore as a replacement for Corbin Burnes makes sense for both sides. The Orioles need an established star to lead their rotation, and the Braves have the pitching depth to consider such a move. As the offseason progresses, this is one storyline that could continue to gain momentum. If the pieces fall into place, it could be a game-changing acquisition for the Orioles as they look to build on their resurgence and aim for greater success in 2024.