The Baltimore Orioles are in the middle of a very active offseason. After trading Grayson Rodriguez for Taylor Ward and signing Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million deal, the Orioles are clearly trying to contend.
But those two moves aren't the big moves that many fans hope their clubs make over the offseason. They're good moves to improve the roster, but not the blockbuster signing or trade to spark excitement.
Fortunately for Orioles fans, Jeff Passan of ESPN made a recent prediction that tabs the Orioles as a team that is reportedly looking to land a "big player." Whether it's a starter or hitter, the Orioles are looking to make a splash this winter.
Orioles predicted to make 'big' move this winter by ESPN insider
"After getting Helsley in free agency and Taylor Ward in a trade," Passan writes, "the Orioles are looking to land a big player - and thought the priority is pitching, they're not against targeting a hitter."
If the Orioles do indeed land this "big player" in free agency or by way of trade, then they could generate a lot of interest and hype in their club for the 2026 season.
A few names to keep in mind in the rotation are former Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez and former Philadelphia Phillies lefty Ranger Suarez.
Both have been linked to Baltimore before, and would certainly fit the bill of a "big" addition this winter. Tatsuya Imai is another big name this offseason, though his odds of coming to Baltimore don't look as great as Valdez's or Suarez's.
More: Orioles' next roster move after Ryan Helsley $28 million deal is clear
In the lineup, the Orioles could go after someone like Kyle Tucker, Cody Bellinger, or Kyle Schwarber as their "big" free agent target. And if they want to get aggressive in a trade, then Arizona Diamondbacks Ketel Marte could be an interesting addition.
There are also plenty of starters who could be available for trade, with Sandy Alcantara, Edward Cabrera, and Joe Ryan three of the bigger names who could be dealt this winter.
But, whoever it ends up being, Passan's report indicates that Baltimore is planning to make at least one more move to acquire a "big" free agent or trade target.
Despite some concerns about their short-term prospects, this report from Passan indicates the Orioles are ready to contend and willing to spend the money or prospects necessary to do so.
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- Orioles 'perfect' free agent match is a 3.66 ERA lefty ace from AL West
- Orioles get lackluster grade for $28 million Ryan Helsley signing
- Orioles sign former Mets, Cardinals All-Star closer to two-year deal
- Orioles' best trade candidate might be a tough sell after a.653 OPS 2025