The fun part of the MLB offseason is for us to analyze, predict and guess all the different scenarios that could happen during the year.
Sometimes, we hit the nail on the head. Other times, we come close or even strike out worse than a batter trying to hit a Félix Bautista splitter.
So here we are jumping into the batter’s box again and predicting which Orioles might be traded prior to the 2024 trade deadline.
The one guideline for this article before we begin is that the player has to be on the Orioles’ 40-man roster. Without further ado, let’s jump right in.
RAMÓN URÍAS – INF
Under club control for another two years, Ramón Urías is a former Gold-Glove-winning third baseman capable of playing the entire infield minus catcher.
At 30 years of age, Urías does have some decent pop in his bat and has played at least 85 games in each of the last three seasons. He could be a solid utility piece, a place-holder or even an injury replacement for any team in the league.
With names like Jorge Mateo and Jordan Westburg set to be on the big league roster and Jackson Holliday pushing to make the club out of spring training, Urías could find himself as the odd man out.
Possible Fits: White Sox, Reds, Marlins
JOEY ORTIZ – INF
Joey Ortiz is pre-arbitration eligible for three more years, providing any club with six years of team control. The dual threat infielder is very strong defensively and has displayed a promising bat in his growth through the minors.
A small taste of major league action last season, Ortiz’s offense improved through each level of the O’s farm system and looks to be an all-around player ready to step into any lineup.
Due to the influx of infielders in the Orioles organization, Ortiz appears to be an attractive prospect in any trade package.
Possible Fits: Athletics, Marlins, White Sox
COLTON COWSER – OF
One of the top 15 prospects in all of baseball, Colton Cowser struggled in his small taste of big league action last season.
Still, Cowser has the tools to excel offensively in the majors and play adequate defense in a corner outfield spot. He has powered his way through each minor league level, leaving him knocking on the door of a full-time big league opportunity.
Between the veterans on the big league roster and the emergence of fellow outfield prospect Heston Kjerstad, Cowser could be a casualty of the numbers game as well as a big trade chip. While many fans would like to see Cowser grow as an Oriole, his opportunity might come from another team.
Possible Fits: White Sox, Marlins, Mariners
ANTHONY SANTANDER – OF
The former Rule 5 Draft pick, Anthony Santander is in his final year of club control. Establishing himself as one of the top power hitters in the game, Santander has been involved in trade rumors for years.
Hitting 61 home runs over the last two seasons, Santander has also learned to play some first base, offering versatility to his game.
Unless the Orioles decide to extend Santander, the next best option is to trade him while he offers a higher value. With the emergence of Kjerstad, along with prospects like Enrique Bradfield Jr., Dylan Beavers and Jud Fabian soon approaching, Tony offers the most value of the veteran Oriole outfielders.
Possible Fits: Astros, Twins, Brewers
JOHN MEANS – LHP
I know many will see this and be ready to take my head, but logically, it’s more realistic than many think.
Means is in the last year of his contract, turns 31 in April and will be in his second year since returning from Tommy John surgery last season. Depending on his performance in the first half, Means could be someone the O’s move at the deadline.
The veteran lefty should slot in as the third or fourth starter in an O’s rotation that surprised the league last season. With a career 3.74 ERA, without an extension, Means’ value will be on the trade market instead of losing him in free agency next year when he could be in high demand.
Possible Fits: Astros, Phillies, Giants
Once again, these are all possible pieces that could headline or be included in a trade package. While some of these players are guys the O’s would rather keep, based on contractual status and major league ready talent, these selections offer the best value on the current 40-man roster.
What do you think of our selections? Who do you think the O’s will move prior to the trade deadline? Let us know in the comments below! Make sure to follow The Baltimore Battery on Facebook, Twitter (X) and TikTok, and use the hashtag #baltimorebattery when sharing our content!
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