The Baltimore Orioles made a major splash when they signed Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract through the 2030 season.
It's a big commitment from the Orioles, and points to Mike Elias and Baltimore approaching this offseason with the intention of building a contender.
Their next move is likely for a starting pitcher, and for ESPN insider Jesse Rogers, there's a clear fit in Washington Nationals lefty ace MacKenzie Gore. Rogers also emphasized how the Orioles' deal for Alonso will play a vital role in making this potential trade work.
Orioles named strong trade fit for Nationals lefty ace thanks to Pete Alonso
"An American League East team, such as the New York Yankees or Orioles, fits for Gore -- especially the latter, which might have an extra hitter or two to spare after signing Alonso." Rogers writes, "Gore fits in Baltimore on several levels."
Gore is a great starting pitching trade target, and amid the mounting rumors, it looks like he could be dealt this winter. The Nationals are open for business, and Gore would be a great fit for the Orioles.
He's 26 years old and under club control through 2027. The Orioles would have two years of Gore on a reasonable contract, the exact kind of player the Orioles need to go after due to Alonso's $155 million contract.
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But Alonso's contract isn't the only reason a Gore trade makes sense. The Orioles have a few position players who are now sitting on the back burner who could be dealt to the Nationals for Gore.
Someone like Coby Mayo, Ryan Mountcastle, or another player could be traded away for Gore. Baltimore needs to find a starting pitcher, and the Nationals are looking to trade away Gore.
The fit makes a ton of sense. Whether it's the package the Orioles can offer or the needs for both teams, this trade connection is one that makes a lot of sense for both sides.
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