Baltimore Orioles Prepare for the Season
As spring training rapidly approaches, the Baltimore Orioles are diligently structuring their roster in anticipation of the forthcoming season. With camps set to open in just over five weeks, the Orioles have already made headlines by securing the talents of veteran pitcher Charlie Morton.
Despite this acquisition, the team’s management is actively exploring the free-agent and trade markets in search of additional key players. The focus is on acquiring a frontline starter, an experienced reliever, and a versatile bench player to round out their squad. These moves not only aim to bolster the Orioles' roster depth but also to strategically position the team for a competitive season.
Payroll Considerations
Financially, the Orioles are navigating a contrasting fiscal landscape from years past. Their estimated payroll for 2025 stands at $136 million, a significant shift from past figures. To provide context, the Opening Day payroll for the Orioles in 2016 reached $148 million, while last year it was a modest $93 million. This change in financial strategy may signal a renewed commitment to competitiveness under the leadership of new billionaire owner David Rubenstein.
The International Signing Landscape
On the international front, Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki stands out as one of the most coveted free agents this offseason. Ranked as the seventh-best free agent available, Sasaki has captured the attention of major MLB franchises. Interestingly, the Boston Red Sox did not conduct an in-person meeting with the pitcher. However, Sasaki has met with the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees, underscoring his widespread appeal.
Due to international bonus pool regulations, Sasaki is only eligible to sign a minor-league contract, with his signing bonus capped at $10 million. With the international signing period for 2025 opening on January 15 and running until January 23, it remains to be seen which team will successfully secure Sasaki’s talents.
Changes in the Cardinals' Strategy
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals, another historic franchise, are undergoing significant changes, described as a "reset" by their President of Baseball Operations, John Mozeliak. In line with this transition, the Cardinals are prioritizing their bullpen, particularly seeking a robust late-inning reliever. Veteran options such as Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates are still on the table, providing the Cardinals with potential avenues to strengthen their pitching staff.
Additionally, free agents Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott, ranked Nos. 24 and 27, respectively, on the top 50 free agents list, remain unsigned. These players represent potential targets for the Cardinals as they seek to reinforce their bullpen as part of their strategic overhaul.
In conclusion, the MLB offseason continues to unfold with intriguing player movements and strategic shifts among franchises. The Baltimore Orioles and St. Louis Cardinals are among the teams actively reshaping their strategies and rosters, signaling an exciting season ahead for baseball fans. From securing key pitching talents to implementing broad roster changes, these teams are gearing up for a compelling 2025 season.