In the world of baseball, the recent signing of Framber Valdez has sent ripples through the league, particularly for the Baltimore Orioles, who are still on the hunt for additional starting pitching options. But here's the kicker: while Valdez's decision has been made, the Orioles' quest is far from over.
The Orioles expressed a keen interest in Valdez and even had discussions with him during the General Managers Meetings held in Las Vegas back in mid-November. However, it remains unclear whether they extended a formal offer or what budget they were willing to allocate for his services.
Interestingly, financial constraints don't appear to be a significant barrier for Baltimore. Since the new ownership group led by David Rubenstein took charge in March 2024, the team has demonstrated a greater readiness to invest in players with substantial contracts. For instance, despite their efforts, they couldn't secure Corbin Burnes last offseason when he signed with the Diamondbacks, but they did make a noteworthy four-year, $180 million offer.
This winter, the Orioles reportedly proposed a lucrative five-year, $150 million contract to outfielder Kyle Schwarber, only for him to return to the Phillies under the same terms. Nevertheless, the team managed to pivot effectively by signing slugging first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year deal worth $155 million. Now, following the loss of Valdez, the Orioles find themselves needing to reevaluate their strategy once again.
As the Orioles gear up for Spring Training in Sarasota, Florida, scheduled to commence on Tuesday, their current starting pitching roster includes:
1. Right-Handed Pitcher (RHP) Kyle Bradish
2. Left-Handed Pitcher (LHP) Trevor Rogers
3. RHP Shane Baz
4. RHP Zach Eflin*
5. RHP Dean Kremer
Additionally, there are other options available on the 40-man roster, such as RHP Tyler Wells, LHP Cade Povich, and RHP Brandon Young. However, it’s worth noting that Eflin might start the season on the injured list due to back surgery.
Given their circumstances, Baltimore could greatly benefit from acquiring another high-caliber starter. Fans are actively voicing their desire for such a move after a challenging 2025 season marked by injuries and an unexpected last-place finish in the American League East.
So, what should the Orioles do next?
Target RHP Zac Gallen
With Valdez now off the table, Zac Gallen stands out as the premier remaining free-agent starter. At 30 years old, Gallen experienced a downturn in performance last season, finishing with a career-high 4.83 ERA across 33 starts. Nonetheless, he had a commendable seven-year tenure with the Diamondbacks, achieving a solid 3.61 ERA in 169 starts. His peak performance came between 2022 and 2024, where he maintained a 3.20 ERA in 93 starts and earned his first All-Star selection in 2023. Given this track record, he presents a strong potential for a rebound in 2026. If the Orioles can negotiate a two- or three-year contract with appealing opt-outs or options, it would be strategic to offer a deal with a high average annual value to secure a top-tier rotation arm. Although they would lose the 83rd pick in the 2026 Draft due to Gallen declining Arizona's qualifying offer, this investment could prove worthwhile.Consider Mid-Tier Options for Depth
If pursuing Gallen doesn't pan out, the Orioles should shift their focus to securing a mid-tier starting pitcher to bolster their rotation depth. Although these names may not be at the top of their wish list, adding a free agent like Chris Bassitt, Justin Verlander, or Lucas Giolito could still enhance Baltimore’s pitching lineup. Reports suggest that the Orioles have shown interest in both Verlander and Giolito. Despite turning 43 soon, Verlander managed to maintain a 3.85 ERA over 29 starts with the Giants last year. On the other hand, the 31-year-old Giolito turned in a commendable performance, finishing the season with a 3.41 ERA in 26 starts for the Red Sox. Each of these pitchers carries potential upside, making it vital for Baltimore to secure at least one quality option if they miss out on Gallen.Worst-Case Scenario: Aim for a Trade Deadline Move
While it may not be the most popular sentiment among fans, there’s a possibility that the Orioles might enter the season with their current pitching staff. Nonetheless, the team still looks improved on paper, and a healthier performance from returning pitchers could be enough to push them into postseason contention. However, the pressing question remains: Is this rotation robust enough to lead the Orioles on a playoff run? Perhaps not just yet.
If Baltimore fails to acquire a starting pitcher before Opening Day on March 26, they must take decisive action at the August 3 Trade Deadline. Even if everything goes according to plan and the Orioles find themselves in contention later this summer, securing a marquee starter could be the crucial element needed to propel this franchise to new heights.
