Baltimore Orioles Eyeing Marcus Stroman: A Risky Pitching Play
With the dawn of Spring Training on the horizon, the Baltimore Orioles find themselves at a crossroads, especially when it comes to their starting rotation.
The Departure of Corbin Burnes
Entering the offseason, the Orioles were well aware of the looming possibility of losing their ace, Corbin Burnes, to free agency. Sadly, this scenario materialized when Burnes inked a deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
In 2024, the former Cy Young award winner proved his mettle for Baltimore, boasting a commendable 15-9 record alongside a stellar 2.92 ERA. Burnes, recruited as the Orioles’ ace the previous winter, unequivocally met expectations. Now, the team faces the daunting task of seeking a new frontrunner. However, with most top-tier free-agent pitchers already off the market, the Orioles are left with only one viable option – pursuing a trade.
A Glimpse at Marcus Stroman
Amidst the offseason hustle, one name that has surfaced as a potential beacon of hope for the Orioles is Marcus Stroman, the New York Yankees’ sixth starter, slated to earn $18 million in the upcoming season. The Yankees are eager to offload Stroman and share the financial burden with a prospective team.
Pros and Cons of Pursuing Stroman
Pros
Despite not holding the ace title, Stroman, a former two-time All-Star, showcased his prowess in 2023 with the Chicago Cubs. Last season, his performance remained commendable, culminating in a 10-9 record and a 4.31 ERA.
Financially, acquiring Stroman presents an enticing prospect for the Orioles. With the Yankees keen on his departure, Baltimore might secure a deal that aligns with their budgetary constraints.
Cons
However, Stroman’s track record reveals a darker side. His performance notably dwindled in the latter half of the previous season, leading to his exclusion from the rotation during New York’s playoff push due to an inflated post-All-Star break ERA exceeding 5.00.
Consistency has been a perpetual stumbling block for Stroman, manifesting not only between seasons but also within a single campaign.
Moreover, a looming red flag for the Orioles is Stroman’s vesting option for 2026, activated if he surpasses 140 innings in 2025. This clause could potentially burden Baltimore with an $18 million payout in 2026 should Stroman opt for the player option.
The Verdict
In the grand scheme of things, the Orioles stand at a pivotal juncture, evaluating the odds and perils of pursuing Stroman. While uncertainties loom large, his acquisition could potentially bolster a pitching lineup in dire need of reinforcement.
