The Baltimore Orioles have built a better roster this winter and they’re still loaded with young talent.
Now, they’re focused on continuing to improve by adding another ace-caliber starter. Whether that comes via free agency or trade remains to be seen, but there are multiple names popping up.
Baltimore has been aggressive this winter, and with the prospect capital they still have, they can afford to be.
If the Orioles want to take the next step come October, not just get there, but win, they need a true ace.
Ken Rosenthal reported that Framber Valdez could be signed by Baltimore, a potential look at what’s to come.
“The Orioles remain in pursuit of another starter, either in free agency or trade. They could sign either of the top remaining free-agent left-handers, Framber Valdez or Ranger Suárez, or even the right-handed Gallen. And they are still deep enough in prospects to pursue the remaining starters available in trade, from Cabrera to Peralta to Washington Nationals lefty MacKenzie Gore,” he wrote.
Valdez, in particular, would be a great addition. A proven left-hander with postseason experience and the ability to carry a staff fits perfectly with any contender in baseball.
The Orioles have waited patiently through their rebuild, but it flipped on them after a bad 2025. The questions will only get louder if they don’t improve in 2026.
More Orioles news:
- Orioles expected to still add another starter after making $10 million decision
- Long-time Orioles veteran linked to Tigers in MLB free agency
- Orioles' Tyler O'Neill makes big contract decision ahead of free agency
- Orioles trade pitch lands Astros' 2.28 ERA reliever in 'Wild' three-team deal
- Orioles urged to re-sign former AL wins leader despite injury concerns
- Former MLB GM links Orioles to three-time NPB All-Star pitcher