Will Baltimore Orioles Ownership Aggressively Spend Money This Offseason?

The Baltimore Orioles proved that they have entered a win-now mode with this roster. Will their ownership spend money to make sure they can become true World Series contenders?

Expectations are that the Baltimore Orioles will be contenders in the American League for years to come after breaking through with their young group and winning 101 games.

They're certainly set up for success going forward based on the amount of superstar players on their roster and potential ones in their pipeline.

But there are still holes on the roster that could be supplemented by being aggressive in free agency or the trade market.

The question will be if ownership is going to allow the Orioles' front office to spend aggressively.

Since general manager Mike Elias took over in 2018, they've ranked 14th, 28th, last, 29th, last and 27th in opening day payroll.

That's not too surprising considering they were undergoing a rebuilding process.

But, heading into the 2024 season, they are projected have the lowest payroll in the MLB.

Considering the potential of this roster, having a payroll that low puts them at a major disadvantage when trying to compete with other teams across their division and the AL.

Baltimore doesn't need to just throw money at free agents for the sake of it, but they should be taking on contracts from other teams who are looking to offload their star players.

The Orioles would like to add an ace-level starter.

Trading for guys like Tyler Glasnow or Corbin Burnes would take this team to the next level.

Mark Polishuk of MLB Trade Rumors doesn't expect there to be much change in ownership's philosophy despite being clear contenders.

"That said, if the Orioles did decide to spend, locking up Rutschman, Henderson, Rodriguez, etc. to extensions would be the first priority," he said.

It's a frustrating reality for Baltimore fans. Despite being in obvious win-now mode, it doesn't feel like ownership will be willing to aggressively spend on outside star talent.