Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports this that the Orioles are looking to shop at the top of the free agent market, expressing interest in outfielder/designated hitter Kyle Schwarber and pitchers Framber Valdez and Tatsuya Imai. Heyman further reported that the Orioles were interested in pitcher Dylan Cease before he signed a seven-year, $210 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Heyman’s report adds credence to the Orioles’ claims that this offseason would be different. President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias had said that the Orioles are willing to spend money to add to the roster and that the qualifying offer would not be a deterrent.
Orioles must prove that their actions match their words
The Orioles have an extensive shopping list and are eager to get back into contention. While the acquisition of outfielder Taylor Ward was a start to adding more strength to the lineup, he is scheduled for free agency after this season. The Orioles need at least one more power hitter to fill the middle of what has been a relatively mediocre lineup.
Likewise, the Orioles need help atop the rotation. Ward came with a high price tag in Grayson Rodriguez, a talented pitcher who has proven to be a top-of-the-rotation starter but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency. Adding a pitcher like Valdez or Imai to Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers could give the Orioles a strong trio of starters for 2026.
However, actions speak louder than words. Elias can say all the right things about the Orioles’ willingness to spend money, but those words will ring hollow until a top free agent signs in Baltimore. His job and the Orioles’ playoff hopes could hinge on whether or not Elias can revamp the roster.
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