The Baltimore Orioles made a significant trade during the offseason, acquiring Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers. General Manager Mike Elias stated that the team had been discussing this move since the end of the World Series. The Orioles were actively searching for rotation help, and Elias provided some details on their pursuit of Burnes. He expressed that Burnes was exactly what they needed and that they were relentless in their pursuit of him. Elias also acknowledged that there were other starting pitchers they pursued, but Burnes was at the top of their wish list.
The trade involved the Orioles giving up two young players, Joey Ortiz and DL Hall, who are ready to play in the major leagues and have promising futures. They also included their Competitive Balance Round draft pick in the deal. Elias recognized that they were sacrificing long-term talent and players who could have contributed to the 2024 Orioles. However, he believed that the trade was worth it for both teams. He acknowledged the risk involved but emphasized that Burnes was a significant upgrade for their rotation.
While the Orioles’ offer was enough to convince the Brewers, it wasn’t sufficient to acquire Dylan Cease from the Chicago White Sox. The Orioles reportedly offered a similar package to the White Sox, along with an additional player. The larger offer likely reflected the difference in contract control between Burnes and Cease. Cease is under arbitration control until 2025, while Burnes is only controlled until 2024. However, the White Sox had a higher asking price for Cease’s services, which the Orioles were not willing to meet.
Previous reports have indicated that the White Sox have shown interest in several of the Orioles’ top prospects, including Jordan Westburg, Heston Kjerstad, and Colton Cowser. It is unclear if any of these prospects were part of the Orioles’ offer to the White Sox. It is possible that the White Sox requested one of these prospects instead of Ortiz, or they wanted a better pitcher than Hall included in the trade. The negotiations with the White Sox highlight the high price tag they have placed on Cease.
The Orioles ultimately decided to focus on acquiring Burnes instead of continuing negotiations with the White Sox. Burnes offers a higher ceiling as a consistent ace-level pitcher, even though he has one less year of control compared to Cease. General Manager Mike Elias had to carefully navigate trade talks to find the best fit for the team. While the Orioles have a strong farm system, Elias was not willing to deplete their depth for just any pitcher.
Regarding Kjerstad and Cowser, they are expected to play significant roles in the future success of the 2024 Orioles. However, the team has a crowded outfield, first base, and designated hitter picture, including players like Cedric Mullins, Anthony Santander, Austin Hays, Ryan Mountcastle, Ryan O’Hearn, Coby Mayo, and Kyle Stowers. Despite these options, the Orioles expressed interest in bringing back Aaron Hicks before he signed with the Los Angeles Angels. Hicks had a successful stint with the Orioles last season and provided veteran leadership to the young clubhouse. The Yankees are still covering Hicks’ previous contract, making him available for a minimum MLB salary this winter.
While the Orioles have a better chance of contending in 2024 compared to the Angels, Hicks likely believed he would have more playing time in Los Angeles. The Angels have outfield options, but injuries to Mike Trout and the unproven track records of Mickey Moniak and Jo Adell create more opportunities for Hicks to become a regular in the lineup.