Grayson King Enters Orioles’ Starting Pitcher Conversation; Alonso Updates

The Baltimore Orioles are pushing into a new era of contention. This offseason feels like a defining moment.

With a blockbuster commitment to Pete Alonso already on the books, Baltimore is making a statement. Their aggressive search for a frontline starter tells the rest of the AL East—and the clubhouse—the rebuild is over and the chase is on.

Baltimore’s Rotation Mission: Michael King Leads the Wishlist

The Orioles’ front office has one clear priority: add a high-impact starting pitcher who can stabilize and elevate the rotation in 2025 and beyond. Their search has zeroed in on several prominent arms as they try to match their emerging core with legitimate top-of-the-rotation talent.

Michael King Headlines a Focused Pitching Pursuit

Michael King has emerged as a central target in Baltimore’s plans. The right-hander brings swing-and-miss stuff and versatility, but also comes with some injury-related questions that have slightly tempered his market value around the league.

For the Orioles, that combination—elite upside plus a marginal discount due to risk—is exactly the kind of gamble that can pay off in October. Despite the health concerns, Baltimore doesn’t seem fazed and views King as a potential difference-maker if he holds up over a full season.

Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez Also on the Radar

King isn’t the only name on Baltimore’s board. The Orioles are also eyeing Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, two left-handers with postseason experience and proven track records in pressure situations.

Valdez brings durability and ground-ball dominance. Suárez offers versatility and a knack for shining in big moments.

The club hasn’t committed to a single path—trade or free agency—for these arms. Instead, they’re surveying the entire pitching market, staying flexible and opportunistic as prices fluctuate.

Pete Alonso Deal Changes the Orioles’ Financial and Competitive Landscape

The Orioles’ pursuit of pitching is made significantly easier—and far more credible—by their massive investment in first baseman Pete Alonso. His acquisition and long-term commitment have altered both the perception and the reality of Baltimore’s financial posture.

$155 Million Statement of Intent

The Orioles’ $155 million deal with Alonso isn’t just a big number on a contract; it’s a franchise-level statement. It shows that Baltimore is willing to spend to keep pace with the heavyweights in the AL East.

It also gives the front office more leverage in talks with potential acquisitions who want proof of a genuine commitment to winning. Internally, Alonso’s power, presence, and playoff aspirations set a tone. Externally, it signals to targets like King, Valdez, and Suárez that Baltimore is no longer a rebuilding destination—it’s a contending one.

Lineup Construction: Gunnar Henderson, Dylan Beavers, and Infield Decisions

While pitching remains the top priority, the Orioles are also fine-tuning their lineup and bench composition. The goal is to balance star power with depth, flexibility, and long-term development.

Gunnar Henderson as a Potential Leadoff Catalyst

The front office is seriously considering Gunnar Henderson in the leadoff spot to maximize his plate appearances. His combination of on-base skills and power fits the modern model of a top-of-the-order threat.

At the same time, younger options like Dylan Beavers are being evaluated as possible lineup pieces. Beavers’ development could give the Orioles another left-handed bat with upside, offering both depth and matchup versatility.

Utility Role: Jeremiah Jackson Over Livan Soto?

On the infield, the utility role appears to be tilting toward Jeremiah Jackson. While Livan Soto remains in the mix, early indications suggest Baltimore prefers Jackson’s profile for that key bench spot.

This type of decision may seem minor compared to a nine-figure Alonso deal or a frontline starter acquisition. But contending rosters are often defined by the quality and versatility of their role players.

Trade Scenarios: Ryan Mountcastle, Coby Mayo, and Roster Flexibility

With Alonso locked in at first base and a wave of young talent rising, the Orioles face some interesting decisions about how to allocate at-bats and defensive spots.

Mountcastle and Mayo: Trade Chips or Coexistence?

Ryan Mountcastle and Coby Mayo both surface as potential trade candidates, especially if the Orioles need to swing a major deal for a frontline pitcher. Their offensive upside makes them attractive to other clubs looking for controllable hitters.

Baltimore isn’t boxed into a corner. With some creative roster construction—platoons, positional flexibility, and DH rotation—the Orioles believe they could accommodate both players if they choose to keep the bats in-house rather than cash them in on the trade market.

Balanced Team-Building and a Confident Fan Base

The Orioles’ front office is emphasizing a balanced approach. Talent acquisition is only part of the equation; they’re carefully weighing how new additions will fit the existing clubhouse culture and chemistry.

Pitching First, but Offense and Fan Engagement Matter

Pitching still comes first, but the Orioles aren’t just sitting back. They’re looking at depth pieces and role players to boost the offense and cover themselves if injuries pop up.

Meanwhile, Baltimore finds ways to keep fans interested with new merchandise drops and regular updates about where things are headed. There’s a buzz in the air—Alonso in orange and black, a possible rotation boost, and this young core getting a little older together.

 
Here is the source article for this story: King in starter conversation for Orioles, Alonso splits, mailbag leftovers for breakfast