Orioles' aggressive offseason makes Ryan Mountcastle a top trade candidate

Jared Bloom

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Orioles' aggressive offseason makes Ryan Mountcastle a top trade candidate image

The Baltimore Orioles have come out as one of the most aggressive teams so far this offseason. After a lackluster 2025 season, the front office had a goal to make this club a contender once again. 

They struck a deal with Ryan Helsley to help lock down the ninth inning, brought back Zach Eflin on a one-year deal, and signed Pete Alonso to a massive five-year, $155 million contract. 

However, it did not stop there. They were also involved in a few trades, acquiring Taylor Ward in a trade with the Los Angeles Angels and Shane Baz in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays. 

MORE: Orioles' offseason update is bad news for top starting pitcher additions

Orioles' aggressive offseason makes Ryan Mountcastle a top trade candidate 

With Baltimore signing Pete Alonso, he will now be taking over the first base duties, which belonged to Ryan Mountcastle. On top of that, the emergence of Samuel Basallo and Coby Mayo could further take away playing time from Mountcastle. 

With a block in place, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand believes he is a great trade candidate. 

"The arrival of Samuel Basallo and Coby Mayo in Baltimore appeared to make Mountcastle expendable, but this winter's signing of Pete Alonso has left the 28-year-old without a clear role with the Orioles in 2026."

Several teams could use some more pop at first base, and there could be more when the season kicks off. The Cincinnati Reds could be a team at play here with their need for a slugger. 


Another team that could use Mountcastle's power is the Colorado Rockies. They currently have a need for a veteran first baseman, and the easy home runs at Coors Field could excite the slugger. 

With no clear path to playing time, do not expect the Orioles to keep Mountcastle around. He could help fill the void elsewhere and give Baltimore a solid package in return.

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Senior Editor