Good news :Mike Elias on the Orioles’ Top Offseason Priorities: Addressing Key Needs Amidst Success.
**Mike Elias on the Orioles’ Top Offseason Priorities: Addressing Key Needs Amidst Success**
As the Baltimore Orioles prepare for an exciting yet challenging offseason following a promising 2023 campaign, General Manager Mike Elias recently shared his thoughts on the team’s top priorities. Despite the Orioles’ return to postseason contention, Elias acknowledged that the team faces several key needs that must be addressed if they are to continue progressing toward a championship.
### 1. **Improving the Starting Rotation**
Elias was clear in his assessment that the Orioles’ pitching staff, while a notable strength, still has room for improvement—especially in the starting rotation. Despite a breakout season from younger arms like Kyle Bradish and Dean Kremer, and the stellar emergence of rookie Grayson Rodriguez, the starting staff struggled at times to provide consistent depth and reliability.
While the Orioles have invested in their pitching development, Elias emphasized the importance of bolstering the rotation with proven veterans. The team is likely to explore adding at least one or two high-impact starting pitchers to provide stability and leadership, especially given the likelihood that the O’s will be pushing for deeper playoff runs in 2024 and beyond. The team may also look to add a starter capable of handling the pressures of a postseason setting.
### 2. **Strengthening the Bullpen**
Although Baltimore’s bullpen ranked among the league’s best in 2023, Elias recognized that depth in the relief corps is a continuous need. Injuries and inconsistencies from certain key relievers, coupled with the long grind of a full season, highlighted the need for additional arms to bolster the bullpen.
Elias mentioned that the Orioles would be in the market for more reliable relief options, particularly with the looming uncertainty around some of the club’s veterans. Strengthening the bullpen will be crucial for the team’s success as they look to maintain their competitive edge in the grueling AL East division.
### 3. **Addressing Offensive Depth**
While the Orioles boasted one of the most potent offenses in the majors, with players like Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson leading the way, there are still areas to improve. Elias highlighted that while the team has emerging talent in the farm system and some intriguing young pieces, bolstering the lineup with veteran hitters could help balance the roster.
Adding a right-handed power bat, particularly someone who can provide consistency in the middle of the order, is a likely priority. The Orioles’ offense performed well in 2023, but in a stacked AL East, a bit more punch could make the difference between a division title and a wild-card spot.
### 4. **Catcher Depth and Backup Plans**
Though the Orioles are fortunate to have one of the league’s best young catchers in Adley Rutschman, Elias made it clear that adding depth behind the plate would be a key focus this winter. The backup catcher position became more pronounced after the departure of veteran James McCann, and the team will likely look for a reliable option to pair with Rutschman—someone who can handle defensive duties and add stability in case of injury.
### 5. **Continuing to Cultivate Young Talent**
One of Elias’ primary goals over the offseason will be continuing to develop the next wave of Orioles talent. Baltimore has one of the deepest farm systems in the league, and Elias has emphasized that the organization will remain committed to building through youth. While the team is in win-now mode, integrating more prospects and ensuring that their top-tier minor league players have the opportunity to develop and contribute is vital for long-term sustainability.
### Looking Ahead: A Balanced Approach to Contention
Mike Elias knows that balancing the development of young players with the addition of veterans is crucial for building a sustainable contender. While the Orioles have come a long way under his leadership, the next step for the team is clear: add the pieces necessary to turn a strong playoff contender into a perennial championship favorite.
As the offseason moves forward, fans can expect a busy winter for the Orioles front office, as they work to fine-tune their roster to ensure Baltimore remains a competitive force in the American League.
