The Baltimore Orioles have been one of the biggest spenders this winter when it comes to trades and free agent signings so far.
Pete Alonso, Ryan Helsley, Taylor Ward, and most recently, Shane Baz have all been major additions by the Orioles. But, they aren't done just yet.
According to Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic, the Orioles' chances of signing one of the top free agent starters, Framber Valdez or Ranger Suarez, have significantly increased compared to a few weeks ago.
Orioles willing to give up draft pick for Suarez, Valdez
"The Orioles, though, are willing to lose another pick," Rosenthal and Sammon write, "knowing that will be part of the calculus if they sign Valdez or Suarez."
This update on the Orioles' interest in Valdez and Suarez is some very good news. Before trading for Baz, if they signed a top free agent who received a qualifying offer, they would have to give up their 47th draft pick.
But now, after sending their 34th pick to the Tampa Bay Rays in the Baz trade, the Orioles would only lose their 85th pick if they sign Valdez or Suarez.
That's a massive difference for the Orioles. By making the Baz trade, the Orioles will now save nearly 40 draft spots in the 2026 MLB Draft.
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Valdez and Suarez are the top pitchers left in free agency, and with both being lefties, either would be an incredible pickup for the Orioles.
And now, thanks in part to the Baz trade, the Orioles are more ready than ever to spend big on another starter, with Valdez or Suarez the most likely addition coming next for Baltimore.
Mike Elias and company have managed the offseason well, and now look to sign one of Valdez or Suarez to further bolster their rotation.
The Orioles, if they can sign one of those lefty starters, would look like a realistic World Series contender. Things are looking up for Baltimore, and this future move would certainly help make things even better for Orioles fans.
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