Orioles could clear almost $20 million to spend with one trade…
The Baltimore Orioles are exploring ways to enhance their roster for the upcoming season. One strategic move under consideration is trading first baseman Ryan Mountcastle, which could free up approximately $20 million over the next few years. This financial flexibility would enable the Orioles to pursue high-impact players, particularly to bolster their pitching rotation.
Mountcastle, known for his power hitting, has been a key contributor to the Orioles’ offense. However, with emerging talents like Jackson Holliday and Colton Cowser ready to make their mark, the team has depth in offensive positions. This depth makes Mountcastle a valuable trade asset who could attract significant interest from teams seeking to strengthen their lineup.
By reallocating Mountcastle’s projected salary, the Orioles could target top-tier pitchers in the free-agent market or through trades. Potential candidates include Corbin Burnes, whose market value is estimated at six years, $180.8 million, and Luis Castillo, who has been an All-Star pitcher and could provide the rotation with a much-needed ace.
This approach aligns with the Orioles’ strategy of building a competitive team by investing in pitching, which has been identified as an area needing improvement. The potential trade of Mountcastle represents a calculated decision to balance the roster and allocate resources effectively, aiming to position the Orioles as strong contenders in the upcoming season.
For a deeper analysis of potential trades that could elevate the Orioles, you might find the following discussion insightful: