It's Now Seen As 'Unlikely' That Baltimore Orioles Trade Star Outfielder

There is a lot of anticipation about what moves the Baltimore Orioles will make during the offseason.

One of the starting pitchers they had been linked to is now no longer available on the free agency market, limiting the pool of candidates that they can pursue.

It's also been assumed that the Orioles would get the ace-level starting they're looking for via trade instead of spending during free agency. That would fit the philosophy of the organization who has been reluctant to spend large amounts of money previously.

A piece that is seen as their best trade chip is star outfielder Anthony Santander.

Because of the expected $12.7 million price tag that he would carry into the 2024 season, many speculate that Santander might be moved.

However, Jake Rill of MLB.com says that the chances of Baltimore moving their coveted slugger is unlikely.

"Santander has been among the O’s top hitters during his seven-year career, and he’s coming off a season in which he posted a .797 OPS and led the team in doubles (41), homers (28) and RBIs (95). Santander could be the centerpiece of a trade package that lands a quality pitcher, but the subtraction of his offense may not be worth it to the O’s," he writes as reason why he probably remains on the team.

That likely won't stop the Orioles from seeing what type of trade packages they could get in return, though.

If that salary projection turns accurate, the outfielder would be the highest paid player during general manager Mike Elias' tenure.

Baltimore hasn't been in the business of carrying expensive players during this rebuild, but they have gotten to the point where they have become major players in the league and can contend right now.

Rumors should still swirl about the possibility of a Santander trade this offseason, but right now it's expected that the Orioles will enter 2024 with him on the roster.