As the start of spring training approaches, the Baltimore Orioles are actively assembling their roster with key acquisitions. With just five weeks until the camp doors open, the team has made significant strides to prepare for the upcoming season.
Baltimore Orioles Boost Roster with Charlie Morton
A prominent move in their offseason strategy includes securing veteran pitcher Charlie Morton. Morton's experience and prowess on the mound are expected to provide the Orioles with a much-needed boost as they navigate their 2025 campaign. However, the Orioles aren’t stopping with Morton. They are on a quest to find a frontline starter, an experienced reliever, and a versatile bench player, scouring the free-agent and trade markets for potential fits.
Despite revamping their roster, the Orioles face an interesting financial landscape. The estimated payroll for 2025 is projected at $136 million—a notable figure considering the franchise's financial history. For reference, the team's Opening Day payroll in 2016 stood at $148 million, considerably higher than last year's $93 million. These shifts highlight changing dynamics under the stewardship of new billionaire owner, David Rubenstein, as he aims to reshape the team’s fortunes.
Roki Sasaki: A Highly Sought-After Talent
The Orioles, alongside several other teams, have shown interest in Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, who ranks as the seventh-best free agent this offseason. Despite speculation about various teams courting Sasaki, the Red Sox notably did not hold an in-person meeting with him. Nonetheless, Sasaki engaged directly with teams like the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees.
With the ongoing international signing period—running from January 15 to January 23—teams have limited time to secure international talent. Under international bonus pool rules, Sasaki can only sign a minor-league contract with a signing bonus capped at $10 million, adding an intriguing wrinkle to this offseason pursuit.
Cardinals Eyeing Bullpen Reinforcements Amidst Team "Reset"
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals are undergoing what President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak describes as a "reset." As part of this transition, the Cardinals are specifically targeting enhancements to their bullpen. The club is keen on signing a robust late-inning reliever to reinforce their pitching staff.
The market remains open for veteran relievers such as Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates, who bring invaluable experience to any bullpen. The Cardinals are also evaluating other potential signings, with Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott, ranked 24th and 27th respectively on the top 50 free agents list, still available.
This strategic overhaul by the Cardinals underscores a commitment to adapt and strengthen after a challenging period. By focusing on late-inning reliability, they aim to build a foundation capable of securing vital wins in high-pressure situations.
As both the Orioles and Cardinals make pivotal moves, the offseason narrative continues to evolve. These strategies not only highlight the drive to improve but also set intriguing precedents for a competitive season ahead.