Orioles Confront Shrinking Starting Pitching Market Before Deadline

With Orioles Opening Day creeping closer, let’s take a look at Baltimore’s quiet offseason. We’ll dig into the starting rotation, recent projections, and what the latest signings might say about where the organization’s headed.

This piece blends roster analysis with a look at international scouting success. There are a few historical notes and personal touches that long-time Orioles fans might appreciate too.

The Orioles’ Quiet Offseason and a Shrinking Market

Just 67 days remain until Opening Day, and the Orioles are in an odd spot for a contender. They’ve mostly sat out the high-end free-agent market, watching rivals across the league make moves while Baltimore’s front office resists splashy contracts.

The field of realistic options keeps shrinking. One name stands out — Framber Valdez, probably the only durable, top-tier starter still within reach without a trade that guts the farm system.

Why Framber Valdez Stands Apart

Valdez checks nearly every box Baltimore needs: innings, postseason experience, and front-line ability. Other starters like Zac Gallen, Lucas Giolito, and Justin Verlander are still unsigned, but most folks around the league don’t expect the Orioles to go after them.

Honestly, if the Orioles want to upgrade the rotation in a big way, it’ll take a major financial commitment. So far, they haven’t shown much interest in that.

Trades and Mid-Tier Moves Define the Rotation Plan

Instead of chasing the biggest free agents, Baltimore’s taking a more conservative path. They’re supplementing the rotation through trades and mid-tier contracts, which fits the front office’s approach in recent years.

Shane Baz and Zach Eflin Enter the Picture

The trade for Shane Baz brings some upside, especially if he can stay healthy. Signing Zach Eflin adds stability and innings.

Still, neither move really changes the rotation’s ceiling. Baltimore has depth, but without an ace, those October dreams feel a bit shaky.

ZiPS Projections Paint a Mixed Picture

FanGraphs recently put out its 2026 ZiPS projections for the Orioles. The lineup projects as one of the league’s stronger young cores, which is encouraging.

Rotation Uncertainty Lingers

Pitching’s still the big question. ZiPS sees competence, not dominance — a staff that can get through the regular season but might struggle against elite postseason lineups.

International Signings Provide a Bright Spot

International scouting continues to be a bright spot for the Orioles. In the latest signing period, five of Baltimore’s ten international amateur signings made MLB Pipeline’s Top 50.

Building the Next Wave

These players won’t help the major league roster right away, but they make an already impressive pipeline even stronger. It’s a reminder that the Orioles’ long-term vision is still in place, even if the short-term feels cautious.

A Nod to History and a Personal Touch

The column takes a lighter turn with a quick roundup of notable January 18 baseball transactions and former Orioles born on that date. These moments remind us of the franchise’s rich past.

Trivia, Memories, and a Casual Sign-Off

Here’s a trivia question about the 1983 World Series to keep things interesting. I also got an Orioles trivia book as a gift, which definitely brought back some memories.

Anyway, it’s Sunday, and honestly, that’s about all I’ve got for now. The offseason still feels up in the air.

Orioles fans are just waiting and watching, hoping this quiet winter finally leads to something big. Will it? Who knows.

 
Here is the source article for this story: There’s not much left for the Orioles on the pitching market