Orioles Poised for More Moves After Signing Pete Alonso

The Baltimore Orioles have taken a bold step this offseason by signing slugger Pete Alonso, signaling their intent to compete in a crowded American League East. While Alonso’s addition is significant, the Orioles recognize that one marquee signing will not be enough to challenge perennial contenders in the division.

With the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Rays all featuring strong rosters, Baltimore faces an uphill climb to remain competitive. The team’s front office appears aware that strategic acquisitions will be necessary to bridge the gap between playoff hopeful and true contender.

Recent commentary from Ryan Ripken, son of Orioles legend Cal Ripken Jr., highlights the possibility of additional moves, including potential trades involving Ryan Mountcastle or Coby Mayo. Ripken believes Baltimore may pursue two more major additions before spring training.

As the Orioles evaluate their roster, the challenge will be identifying talent that complements the current core. The combination of high-level acquisitions and internal development could determine whether Baltimore can make a legitimate run in 2025.

1. Potential Trades and Roster Adjustments

Ryan Ripken’s comments underscore the possibility that the Orioles could trade one of their promising young players to acquire more established talent. Both Mountcastle and Mayo are viewed as valuable pieces, but their trade value could help bring in immediate impact players. Baltimore’s management is reportedly exploring all avenues, balancing the need to improve quickly with the desire to maintain long-term prospects. A calculated trade could strengthen key areas like pitching or infield depth. The Orioles’ willingness to make bold moves reflects a shift in strategy, moving away from solely developing talent internally to actively engaging in the trade and free-agent market. This approach aims to create a roster capable of competing with elite AL East teams. Ultimately, any trade decision will need to consider both short-term performance gains and long-term organizational goals. Striking the right balance could position Baltimore for sustained competitiveness rather than a one-year spike in performance.

2. Targeted Acquisitions

Reports have suggested that Baltimore is eyeing pitching as a top priority. Bob Nightengale of USA Today speculated that the Orioles could pursue Miami Marlins starter Edward Cabrera, who is under team control for three more seasons. Cabrera enjoyed a breakout season last year, pitching a career-high 137.2 innings and posting a 2.8 WAR. Pairing him with Orioles starters Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish could solidify the rotation and provide the consistency the team lacked in previous campaigns. Acquiring a pitcher like Cabrera would align with Baltimore’s broader strategy of adding high-level talent to complement its existing core. It would also demonstrate a commitment to investing in players who can make an immediate impact while maintaining future flexibility. As the offseason progresses, the Orioles will need to evaluate which targets provide the best combination of talent, affordability, and positional fit. Strategic acquisitions will be key to ensuring that Alonso’s presence translates into real competitiveness.

3. Division Competitiveness and Outlook

The AL East remains one of baseball’s most challenging divisions. The Yankees and Blue Jays continue to improve, while the Red Sox and Rays remain perennial threats. In this context, a single marquee signing is unlikely to shift the balance of power. Baltimore’s front office is clearly aware that staying passive is not an option. A combination of trades, free-agent signings, and internal player development will be necessary to compete with the division’s heavyweights. If the Orioles execute additional moves effectively, they could transform from a promising team into a legitimate contender. However, missteps in the trade market or free agency could leave the team struggling to keep pace. The coming weeks will be crucial for the Orioles, as their strategy in this active offseason will set the tone for 2025. Observers will be watching closely to see if the team can convert promise into tangible results.