The Baltimore Orioles are diligently preparing as spring training camps edge closer to opening in just over five weeks. After a season of fluctuating performances, the O's are keen to reinforce their roster and aim for a competitive season ahead. A key move in their off-season strategy has been securing the services of seasoned pitcher Charlie Morton, a significant step towards solidifying their rotation.
Building a Competitive Roster
Amidst their preparations, the Orioles are actively exploring both the free-agent and trade markets to meet three critical needs: they are on the hunt for a frontline starter, a savvy reliever, and a versatile bench player. These strategic additions are expected to complement Morton's experience on the mound and bolster the Orioles' chances in the upcoming season.
The team enters this phase with a 2025 estimated payroll set at $136 million, reflecting a strategic approach to financial management compared to their historical figures. To put things in perspective, the Orioles' Opening Day payroll was $148 million back in 2016 and saw a notable decrease to $93 million last year. This adjustment showcases a balancing act between financial constraints and the ambition to improve their competitive edge.
Ownership Changes and Market Moves
Adding intrigue to the Orioles' off-season strategy is the involvement of new billionaire owner, David Rubenstein. His influence is likely to play a pivotal role in the team's direction, both in terms of managerial decisions and market engagements. The Orioles' current trajectory may see a blend of traditional team-building tactics infused with innovative approaches under Rubenstein's ownership.
On a broader league scale, the free-agent market adds its own set of dynamics. Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki has gained significant attention this off-season, ranking as the seventh-best free agent available. Despite his rising profile, the Red Sox, interestingly, have not pursued an in-person meeting with him. Sasaki met with a slew of other teams including the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees.
Due to constraints imposed by international bonus pool rules, Sasaki is currently limited to signing a minor-league contract with a maximum signing bonus capped at $10 million. The international signing period for 2025, running from January 15 to January 23, approaches as teams aim to make decisive moves.
Cardinals' Strategic "Reset"
Elsewhere in Major League Baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals are undergoing their own transformative phase. As their President of Baseball Operations, John Mozeliak put it, the team is in a "reset" mode. The Cardinals are actively pursuing upgrades, particularly seeking a robust late-inning reliever to enhance their bullpen.
Veteran options remain on the market with names like Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates available for teams in need of experienced closing talent. Meanwhile, Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott, ranked Nos. 24 and 27 on the top 50 free agents list, stand unsigned, offering potential bullpen solutions for teams like the Cardinals.
This transition phase for the Cardinals seems to signal a broader revamping of strategies, indicative of their commitment to competitiveness despite the pressures of performance and market conditions.
The evolving landscape within MLB presents a tapestry of strategic moves, ownership dynamics, and player market discussions, each holding the potential to shape the upcoming season in unforeseen ways. As teams like the Orioles and Cardinals navigate these waters, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how these preparations translate into on-field performances once spring training heats up.