As the excitement of a new baseball season approaches, teams across the league are hard at work fine-tuning their rosters. Among them, the Baltimore Orioles are making notable moves to establish themselves as contenders. With spring training camps set to open in just over five weeks, the Orioles are taking strategic steps to enhance their lineup and address critical needs ahead of the 2025 season.
Orioles Bolster Pitching Staff
The Orioles have secured the talents of veteran pitcher Charlie Morton, adding depth and experience to their roster. Morton's addition is a clear signal of the Orioles' intention to strengthen their pitching rotation. However, the team is not stopping there. The front office remains on the hunt for a frontline starter and an experienced reliever, both of which are high on their priority list as they scour the free-agent and trade markets.
Considering the Orioles' recent payroll adjustments—dropping from an Opening Day figure of $148 million in 2016 to $93 million last year—there seems to be room for strategic investments this offseason. With the estimated payroll for 2025 standing at $136 million, the Orioles under new billionaire owner David Rubenstein might be poised for further spending to enhance their competitive edge.
International Talent and Minor League Strategy
One of the intriguing stories this offseason is the pursuit of Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki. Ranked as the seventh-best free agent, Sasaki is in high demand, having met with major league teams like the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees. Interestingly, the Boston Red Sox did not conduct an in-person meeting with him, which raises questions about their plans regarding international acquisitions.
Despite the interest, Sasaki faces limitations due to international bonus pool rules, restricting him to minor-league contracts with a signing bonus capped at $10 million. As the international signing period for 2025 approaches, starting on January 15 and closing on January 23, the anticipation surrounding Sasaki’s decision heightens, offering teams a brief window to make enticing offers.
Cardinals’ "Reset" and Bullpen Needs
Meanwhile, over in St. Louis, the Cardinals are undergoing what John Mozeliak, President of Baseball Operations, describes as a "reset." This strategic pivot reflects a broader effort to retool their roster, particularly focusing on their bullpen. Seeking to fortify their late-inning options, the Cardinals are in serious pursuit of a robust closer or set-up man.
Among the veteran relievers still available are Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates, each bringing a mix of experience and skill that could immediately bolster the Cardinals' relief core. Additionally, free agents Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott, who are ranked Nos. 24 and 27 on the top 50 free agents list, remain unsigned, potentially offering even more options for critical acquisition.
Market Dynamics and Strategic Decisions
As clubs navigate the intricate dance of free agency and trades, the Orioles and Cardinals epitomize different stages of team development and ambition. While the Orioles are actively seeking to climb the ranks and compete more effectively in their division, the Cardinals are taking a more reflective approach, resetting with strategic acquisitions that align with their evolving game plan.
The offseason period often forces teams into a balancing act, weighing financial flexibility against the immediate need for talent enhancement. Both the Orioles and Cardinals demonstrate how franchises can adapt and pivot based on their current standings and future aspirations. Whether it's attracting international talent or solidifying bullpen depth, these moves set the stage for an engaging upcoming season filled with promise and potential for surprises.