Baltimore Orioles, coming off a season filled with hope and promise, are reportedly exploring a potential blockbuster trade that could bring them a much-needed ace as a replacement for Corbin Burnes, who is rumored to be a hot commodity on the market. The Orioles, who have built one of the most exciting young rosters in baseball, are looking to strengthen their pitching rotation, and acquiring a replacement for Burnes could be the move that helps them contend in the competitive American League.
Corbin Burnes, the 2021 National League Cy Young Award winner, has been one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball over the past few seasons. Known for his electric stuff, pinpoint control, and ability to overpower hitters, Burnes would have been a dream addition for the Orioles. However, with his value soaring and several top-tier teams in the market for an ace, it’s becoming increasingly likely that Baltimore will need to look elsewhere to bolster their rotation.
Rumors have surfaced that the Orioles are eyeing other elite pitching options via trade, with names like Shane Bieber of the Cleveland Guardians and Tyler Glasnow of the Tampa Bay Rays being floated as potential targets. Both pitchers bring their own unique set of skills and could immediately fill the void that Burnes would leave if he signs elsewhere. Bieber, known for his consistent dominance and experience in big games, could be the perfect veteran presence to anchor the Orioles’ young staff. Glasnow, with his high-velocity fastball and devastating curveball, brings the kind of stuff that could make him a top ace in the American League.
The Orioles’ need for a top-tier pitcher became evident throughout the 2023 season, where despite having a promising young core featuring standout players like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Cedric Mullins, their pitching staff often struggled to keep pace with more established contenders. While Baltimore’s bullpen has been effective, their rotation lacked the firepower needed to compete deep into the playoffs.
Adding a Burnes replacement would elevate the Orioles from playoff hopefuls to legitimate contenders. General Manager Mike Elias has shown a willingness to be aggressive in improving the team, and with the farm system brimming with talent, the Orioles have the pieces needed to pull off a major trade. Whether it’s giving up a top prospect like Jackson Holliday or dipping into their deep minor league system, the Orioles are in prime position to make a splash.
If Baltimore does manage to land a top-tier arm like Bieber or Glasnow, it would signal their intention to win now. The AL East remains one of the toughest divisions in baseball, with perennial contenders like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays constantly retooling. For the Orioles, adding an ace to their talented young roster could be the final piece of the puzzle as they look to return to their glory days and compete for a World Series title.
The offseason is still young, and while Burnes may not be the one donning an Orioles uniform in 2024, Baltimore fans can be optimistic that the front office is working tirelessly to bring in the talent needed to take the next step. Whether it’s Bieber, Glasnow, or another surprise target, the Orioles are on the verge of making a move that could reshape their future for years to come.
