Assessing the Current Franchise Status
A recent analysis by Sports Illustrated characterizes the Baltimore Orioles as a team struggling to regain competitiveness, noting they are nearly 40 games out of first place in the American League East for the last two years. The publication states that the franchise has been a bottom-eight team in baseball since June 20, 2024.
The report places significant criticism on President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias, describing him as a "perpetual baseball operations failure" who has served nine years in his role. According to the article, Elias has not secured a single league-average starting pitcher during his tenure, nor has he acquired a truly special one.
Despite these assessments, Orioles Owner David Rubenstein, Manager Craig Albernaz, and Elias addressed the audience during a press conference at Warehouse Bar in Baltimore on Nov. 4, 2025, as documented by IMAGN Images via Reuters Connect.
Potential Roster Overhaul and Trade Scenarios
The Sports Illustrated piece suggests several specific moves to revitalize the roster for the 2027 season. One proposed scenario involves trading star shortstop Gunnar Henderson to acquire Minnesota Twins centerfielder Byron Buxton.
Regarding the current pitching staff, the report indicates that Trevor Rogers is reportedly excited about free agency, making a return to Baltimore unlikely. The article advises against signing veteran pitchers Chris Bassitt, Charlie Morton, or Zach Eflin, labeling them as "broken and over-the-hill retreads." Instead, it suggests that new General Manager Jared Banner could pursue corner outfielders like Seiya Suzuki or Ian Happ, leveraging his ties to the Chicago Cubs.
The report also mentions Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff, who was recently added to the World Series roster but has a history of injury issues. The article suggests he could be a "cheap flier" if trades are made early in the offseason.
Financial Constraints and Ownership Stance
A significant barrier to these potential moves appears to be financial. The Sports Illustrated report states that the Orioles are not expected to sign a starting pitcher to a $200 million deal. It further describes ownership as unwilling to extend itself significantly, limiting the scope of available free-agent acquisitions.