The Baltimore Orioles are set for an offseason of significant changes following Thursday’s announcement that eight of their players have elected to enter free agency, including their ace pitcher Corbin Burnes and power-hitting outfielder Anthony Santander. Burnes, a former National League Cy Young Award winner, was instrumental in Baltimore’s 2024 playoff push, and his departure marks a pivotal shift for the Orioles. Additionally, Boston Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito has opted into his contract, further shaping the MLB landscape as teams start strategizing for 2025.
Corbin Burnes, 30, joined the Orioles for the 2024 season after being traded by the Milwaukee Brewers, where he established himself as one of the premier pitchers in baseball. Burnes had a strong season in Baltimore, ending with a 15-9 record and a 2.92 ERA over 32 games. His performance was essential to the Orioles’ success, anchoring the rotation and providing stability during the regular season.
Burnes’ impact on the mound can hardly be overstated. Known for his elite command and ability to strike out hitters with his powerful mix of pitches, he quickly became a fan favorite in Baltimore. With Burnes now entering free agency, the Orioles are left to fill a significant gap in their rotation. Competing for his services in free agency could be numerous teams, each recognizing the value an experienced and dominant pitcher like Burnes can bring. Baltimore may pursue a renewed deal with Burnes, but it will likely be in a fierce bidding war with other franchises looking to bolster their pitching staff.
Anthony Santander, also 30, has opted for free agency, leaving Baltimore without one of its most powerful sluggers. Santander posted a .235 batting average in 2024, but his raw power was undeniable, as he knocked 44 home runs and drove in 102 RBIs. Santander has been a reliable power hitter for the Orioles over the years, and his presence in the lineup has often shifted the momentum of games.
Santander’s decision to explore free agency means that Baltimore will need to search for a comparable bat to fill his spot or restructure their lineup around emerging talent. His power-hitting capability makes him an attractive option for any team looking to add depth and slugging potential. However, re-signing Santander could also be in Baltimore’s best interest, considering his established rapport with teammates and consistency in delivering critical runs.
Aside from Burnes and Santander, six other Orioles have chosen to pursue free agency: right-handers Brooks Kriske and Burch Smith, left-handed pitcher John Means, catcher James McCann, and outfielders Austin Slater and Daniel Johnson. Each player brings unique skills that contributed to Baltimore’s overall depth throughout the season.
Kriske and Smith provided bullpen depth and flexibility, while Means, another starting option, was valuable as a left-handed pitcher with experience. McCann offered veteran presence behind the plate, helping manage the pitching staff, and both Slater and Johnson added outfield versatility. With their departure, the Orioles will need to rely on younger players within their system or bring in new talent to maintain their competitive edge.
With these eight players pursuing free agency, the Orioles are at a crossroads in their journey as an emerging powerhouse in the American League. They have a strong farm system, with several promising prospects ready to step up, but replacing the star power and experience of players like Burnes and Santander won’t be easy.
The Orioles may have room in their budget to make competitive offers to retain Burnes or Santander, but they will also need to assess other free agents who might be a good fit for their roster needs. Furthermore, Baltimore may look into potential trades or internal promotions to fill these newly vacant roles.
As the MLB offseason unfolds, the Orioles’ decisions in free agency will be closely watched. Losing stars like Burnes and Santander could be challenging, but it also offers an opportunity for the Orioles to retool their roster strategically. Baltimore’s front office faces some critical choices as they aim to keep the team on track for success in 2025.
Leave a Reply