Can the Orioles Land a Top Free-Agent Starting Pitcher?

The Baltimore Orioles aren’t done building their roster. Even after one of the most aggressive winters in franchise history, there’s more left on their to-do list.

After trading for Shane Baz and landing a blockbuster free agent, the front office made it clear: they still want another top-end starting pitcher. Baltimore’s chasing that last piece to really cement themselves as a legit American League East heavyweight.

Orioles Signal They’re Still in the Market

Right after the Baz trade, Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias didn’t mince words. The roster isn’t finished yet, he said.

Baltimore’s still poking around both the free-agent and trade markets, searching for high-impact talent—especially on the mound. They want another starter, that much is obvious.

The Orioles’ front office is acting like a group that knows their window is wide open. With a young core hitting its stride and expectations getting higher, the mission feels simple: bring in proven pieces that can help in October.

Big Spending Underscores a Shift in Philosophy

The vibe in Baltimore’s offseason shifted big time when they signed Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million deal. That move sent a message across the league: the Orioles are ready to spend real money and make long-term bets on elite players.

Altogether, Baltimore has put down $195.1 million on free agents this winter. Only Toronto has spent more. That kind of spending just hasn’t happened here before, and it really shows how serious the club is about winning now.

Key Additions Already on the Books

The Orioles’ shopping spree touched several weak spots, giving the roster more balance and options for the season ahead.

Even with all these moves, the Orioles still want a true rotation anchor.

Pursuit of an Ace-Caliber Starter Continues

Baltimore’s not letting up in their hunt for a frontline starter. They want someone who can lead the rotation, especially in October.

Sources say lefties Ranger Suárez and Framber Valdez are right at the top of their wish list.

Both pitchers offer what the Orioles crave: proven results, playoff experience, and the stamina to handle big innings against tough opponents.

Why Suárez and Valdez Fit So Well

Suárez, 30, just wrapped up a strong 2025 with a 3.20 ERA over 157 1/3 innings. Even more impressive, he’s got a 1.48 career postseason ERA, which matters a lot for a team thinking about championships.

Valdez, 32, is about as durable as they come. He’s thrown at least 176 1/3 innings in each of the past four seasons and logged 85 playoff innings, so he’s no stranger to the pressure up top in a rotation.

Rotation Depth and AL East Implications

The Orioles’ current rotation mix already includes Kyle Bradish, Trevor Rogers, Shane Baz, Zach Eflin, Dean Kremer, Tyler Wells, Cade Povich, and Brandon Young.

On paper, that’s a solid group. But last season’s injury issues showed how risky it can be to lean too much on depth alone.

Adding another proven starter wouldn’t just serve as insurance. It could push Baltimore into the upper tier of the American League East—maybe even further.

In a division where every little upgrade matters, landing an ace might be the thing that finally separates the Orioles from their rivals come October. Or maybe that’s just wishful thinking, but it’s hard not to imagine the impact.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Will the Orioles make a splash with a free agent starting pitcher?