Orioles Adjust Roster as Spring Training Approaches
As the Baltimore Orioles prepare for another crucial Major League Baseball season, they are strategically assembling a roster they hope will compete fiercely in the upcoming campaign. With spring training scheduled to commence in just over five weeks, the Orioles are evaluating potential key additions and have already made some notable moves.
Shoring Up the Roster
The Orioles have made a significant acquisition by securing the services of Charlie Morton, a move that signifies their intent to strengthen their pitching options. In their pursuit of not only a frontline starter but also an experienced reliever and a versatile bench player, the Orioles are actively engaged in the free-agent and trade markets. This comprehensive approach aims to fill crucial gaps and fortify a competitive unit ahead of the 2025 season.
The team's payroll considerations appear to be a strategic factor in their planning. While the estimated payroll for 2025 stands at $136 million, this figure is notably lower than the Opening Day payroll of $148 million back in 2016. This conservative spending approach is emphasized by last year's Opening Day payroll, which was significantly reduced to $93 million.
New Ownership and Future Prospects
A significant change in the ownership ranks could influence the Orioles' strategy moving forward. The new billionaire owner, David Rubenstein, brings a fresh perspective, possibly hinting at an innovative approach to team management and investment in player resources. His tenure could prove instrumental in reshaping the franchise's trajectory.
As the Orioles explore their options, Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki emerges as a key highlight in the free-agent market. Ranked as the seventh-best free agent available this offseason, Sasaki has garnered attention from several MLB heavyweights. Although the Boston Red Sox did not engage in an in-person meeting with Sasaki, teams such as the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees have expressed their interest through face-to-face discussions.
However, Sasaki's signing options are constrained by international signing rules. These stipulate that he can only sign a minor league contract with a signing bonus not exceeding $10 million due to international bonus pool limitations. The international signing period for 2025 presents a small window from January 15 to January 23, putting a potential Sasaki signing on the clock.
Cardinals in a State of Transition
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals are undergoing a period of transition described by their President of Baseball Operations, John Mozeliak, as a "reset." As a team traditionally associated with consistent performance, this reset indicates a pivotal shift in their strategy, particularly focusing on their bullpen needs.
The Cardinals are on the hunt for a robust late-inning reliever. Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates remain on the market as veteran relievers who could potentially fill this role. Additionally, right-handed pitchers Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott are also available, ranked Nos. 24 and 27, respectively, on the top 50 free agents list.
For the Cardinals, bolstering their pitching staff is an essential step in their transitional phase, aiming to enhance their competitiveness in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
In summary, as spring training inches closer, both the Baltimore Orioles and St. Louis Cardinals are maneuvering their options and resources to build rosters capable of meeting their aspirations. Whether it's through strategic signings, restructuring player contracts, or seeking new talents abroad, both teams find themselves at a crossroads. The Orioles, under new ownership, are looking to craft a team that can bring success, while the Cardinals navigate a period of recalibration, intent on emerging stronger from their self-proclaimed reset. How these developments will unfold remains a matter of great interest to baseball enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the commencement of the 2025 season.