Spring training is just around the corner, signaling a time of transition and preparation in Major League Baseball. For the Baltimore Orioles, this means actively shaping their roster to compete in the upcoming season. With little over five weeks until spring camps open, the Orioles have already begun making strategic moves.
Baltimore Orioles Rebuilding Efforts
The Orioles, guided by new billionaire owner David Rubenstein, are making substantial changes. Among the most noteworthy acquisitions is the securing of Charlie Morton, a seasoned pitcher who is expected to bring stability and experience to the Orioles' pitching rotation. As the team looks to enhance its competitiveness, they are also seeking a frontline starter, an experienced reliever, and a versatile bench player in the free-agent and trade markets.
This comes as the team's finances show signs of improvement. Notably, the Orioles’ estimated payroll for 2025 is projected at $136 million, a significant increase from last year's Opening Day payroll of $93 million. Although this is still below the $148 million payroll in 2016, it indicates a strategic investment into strengthening the team.
Pursuit of International Talent: Roki Sasaki
In the wider baseball landscape, Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki ranks as the seventh-best free agent available this offseason. Sasaki's potential signing comes with constraints due to international bonus pool rules, which limit him to a minor league contract with a signing bonus capped at $10 million. Despite this, interest from major league teams remains high. Sasaki has already held meetings with several marquee teams, such as the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees. However, the Boston Red Sox notably did not have an in-person meeting with him.
The international signing period for 2025 begins on January 15 and runs until January 23, which could see a flurry of activity as teams look to secure international talent like Sasaki.
St. Louis Cardinals: A Time for Change
A few states over, the St. Louis Cardinals are navigating changes of their own. John Mozeliak, the president of baseball operations, has declared that the team is undergoing a "reset." This involves making strategic adjustments, with a particular focus on bolstering their bullpen. Despite missing the postseason for the first time in several years, the Cardinals are hopeful about this transition phase.
In pursuit of a robust late-inning reliever, the Cardinals have identified veteran relievers Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates as potential targets. Two promising free agents, Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott, who are ranked Nos. 24 and 27 on the top 50 free agents list, remain unsigned, offering further opportunities for the Cardinals to consider as they aim to reinforce their bullpen strength.
As teams like the Orioles and Cardinals make pivotal moves, the upcoming season promises to be an intriguing one for baseball fans. The strategic adjustments and acquisitions being undertaken could play significant roles in these franchises' quests for improved performances. With the clock ticking down to spring training and the international signing period on the horizon, all eyes will be watching which moves will convert potential into performance on the field.