What's the Baltimore Orioles' Biggest Lingering Question Heading Into 2024 Season?

The Baltimore Orioles are coming off one of their best seasons in recent memory. The 101-win team is looking to improve in order to keep pace in the ever-competitive American League East.

Since the beginning of the winter, Orioles general manager Mike Elias has said that the point of emphasis for the team this offseason would be to acquire pitching. But not just any pitching but impact pitching.

Many believed that Elias meant they would be playing in the deep end of the free agent pool for players like Aaron Nola, Yoshinobu Yammamoto or Blake Snell. Two of those players have already signed and the free agent pool looks thin.

There is of course still the trade market and Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease's name leads the pack when it comes to rumors and Baltimore.

But according to MLB.com, the largest question that still lingers around the Orioles is "how will they upgrade their rotation?"

"General manager Mike Elias has repeatedly made it known he’d like to add a big-league-caliber starting pitcher to upgrade Baltimore’s rotation for the 2024 season," writes MLB.com's Jake Rill. "But nothing has materialized so far this offseason, while free-agent pitchers continue to come off the board."

"The market for starters has been a bit pricey, as quite a few teams have been giving out lucrative deals. Because of that, it still seems more likely the Orioles acquire a new rotation piece in a trade. They have a glut of talented position-player prospects in their stacked farm system to use as trade chips, and starters such as White Sox right-hander Dylan Cease and Brewers righty Corbin Burnes continue to be involved in rumors."

As Rill points out, perhaps the trade market is the best way to go in order to use the capital the Orioles have the most of - prospects.

That's why you create a stellar farm system, not only to promote impact players but to use others as trade chips to fill in holes within the roster.

Still, what the Orioles do to address their rotation remains the biggest question for this team ahead of MLB Spring Training.

Published Dec 23, 2023

KADE KISTNER

Kade Kistner—a driving force in sports journalism. Holding the helm as publisher for Sports Illustrated's acclaimed feature, Rodeo Daily, Kade is a seasoned alumnus of Tulane University. His academic journey culminated in a 2017 graduation, marked by a degree in Latin American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Following his academic pursuits, Kade embarked on a distinctive path. He answered the call of duty, joining the ranks of the United States Navy. Guided by his aspirations, he honed his skills at Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida, ultimately achieving the esteemed position of Naval Aviator. His base of operations was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida—a testament to his dedication and service. Amidst his academic achievements and military commitment, Kade found himself drawn to the world of sports coverage. His byline graced the pages of prestigious platforms such as USA Today, SB Nation, and the revered Sports Illustrated. Within these domains, he tackled the intricate worlds of MLB and NFL, unfurling their stories with a discerning eye. From capturing the essence of the New Orleans Saints to unraveling the narratives of the Texas Rangers, Kade's journalistic prowess shone through. His writing translated the raw data of the sports world into compelling narratives that resonated with readers far and wide. With the turning of seasons, Kade embraced new horizons. He introduced Inside the Phillies, Inside the Astros, and Inside the Cubs—an endeavor that unveiled the inner workings of these iconic teams. Kade's knack for storytelling transformed team dynamics and player stories into engaging content for avid fans. Engage with Kade on Twitter, where his handle, @KadeKistner, serves as an open invitation to join the conversation. For inquiries or correspondence, he can be reached at kwkistner@gmail.com. Kade Kistner's journey through the multifaceted world of sports and journalism continues to unfold, leaving an indelible mark along the way.

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