Done Deal :New serious threat to Baltimore Orioles hopes of re-signing Corbin Burnes emerges after Blake Snell’s signing.

**New Serious Threat to Baltimore Orioles’ Hopes of Re-signing Corbin Burnes Emerges After Blake Snell’s Signing**

The Baltimore Orioles’ pursuit of a top-tier starting pitcher this offseason has just encountered a significant roadblock. Following the recent news of Blake Snell’s lucrative signing with a rival team, the Orioles now face a new and more formidable challenge in their efforts to re-sign Corbin Burnes. Burnes, one of the most sought-after pitchers on the market, had already been a key focus for Baltimore’s front office as they aimed to strengthen their pitching rotation for the upcoming season. However, with Snell’s move creating a ripple effect, the dynamics of the free-agent pitching market have shifted, potentially altering Burnes’ future with the Orioles.

**The Snell Impact: A Competitive Landscape Shifts**

Blake Snell, the 2021 National League Cy Young Award winner, has long been considered one of the top pitchers available on the free-agent market. His recent signing, reportedly for a significant contract, is expected to shake up the starting pitching market and set the bar for other big-name pitchers, including Burnes.

As the free-agent market heats up, teams are increasingly looking for pitching reinforcements to bolster their rotations. With Snell now off the table, Burnes could find himself with more competition for the remaining high-budget teams. That means the Orioles, who had been optimistic about their ability to land the star right-hander, now find themselves battling against deeper-pocketed franchises who can offer Burnes not just a competitive salary but also a chance at postseason contention.

**Burnes’ Market Value Soars**

Corbin Burnes, a two-time All-Star and former Cy Young Award winner, has been one of the most consistent and dominant pitchers in Major League Baseball in recent years. His strikeout ability, command, and overall effectiveness on the mound make him one of the most coveted assets in the free-agent market. Prior to Snell’s signing, many experts believed that Burnes could be a priority target for the Orioles, who have the financial flexibility to make a splash in the offseason.

However, with Snell’s deal setting the tone for what the top-tier pitchers are likely to demand, Burnes’ market value has skyrocketed. It is now expected that his contract demands will mirror or exceed those of Snell, potentially pushing the price tag into the range that the Orioles may find difficult to justify, especially when considering their current financial structure and roster needs.

**The Orioles’ Current Position**

While the Orioles have shown interest in acquiring Burnes, their overall budget flexibility could be tested with the high price tags now attached to pitchers like Burnes and Snell. After a promising season, the team’s front office has been focused on building a well-rounded, competitive roster, but re-signing key players and adding top-tier pitching presents a delicate balancing act. The Orioles are still in a strong financial position, but their resources may need to be allocated wisely to avoid overspending on one player at the expense of others who could help them contend for a playoff spot in 2024.

The Orioles’ farm system is brimming with talent, and they have made significant progress in recent years. However, the team’s success in 2024 and beyond will largely depend on their ability to secure quality pitching. With Snell off the board, Burnes represents one of the few true ace-level pitchers available, and his signing could be a defining move for whichever team lands him. Baltimore may now need to weigh whether to meet the increasing price for Burnes or pivot to alternative options.

**Rival Teams’ Increased Interest**

The signing of Blake Snell has not just shifted the financial landscape; it has also increased the competition. Teams like the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves — all of whom have been linked to Burnes at various points — are likely to ramp up their efforts to secure his services now that one of the other top-tier free agents is off the board. These teams, equipped with larger payrolls and a history of winning, will undoubtedly make compelling pitches to Burnes, who may be enticed by the prospect of joining an elite contender.

**What’s Next for Baltimore?**

For the Orioles, the road to securing Corbin Burnes has undoubtedly become steeper. With other teams increasing their pursuit and the price for Burnes rising, the Orioles will need to consider all their options carefully. While Burnes would be a game-changing addition to the rotation, it’s unclear whether the Orioles can afford to compete financially without compromising other areas of their roster.

As the winter meetings approach, expect the Orioles’ front office to continue exploring all avenues to enhance their pitching staff, including pursuing other free-agent pitchers or potential trade options. With Burnes’ status now more uncertain than ever, the Orioles’ hopes of securing a top-tier ace could hinge on their ability to outbid the competition or find alternative solutions that don’t break the bank.

In the coming weeks, Baltimore’s plans for the 2024 season will likely hinge on how they navigate this newly complicated market for starting pitching. As other teams adjust their strategies in light of Snell’s signing, the battle for Corbin Burnes will be one of the most talked-about storylines of the offseason.