Despite a lackluster season in 2025, the Baltimore Orioles will look to come out swinging during the 2026 season. They are looking to move past their budget expectations and be really aggressive over the offseason.
They have already made a move, trading away often-injured RHP Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Angels. In his place, Baltimore received Taylor Ward, a hard-hitting right-handed bat they need.
However, that is not the only move the club is expected to make over the next few months. They will do their best to sign one of the top names on the open market.
Orioles viewed as legitimate contenders to land Pete Alonso in free agency
One of the biggest names on the open market is Pete Alonso. He is coming off his second consecutive season where he did not miss a regular season game, and hit.272/.347/.524 with 38 home runs and 126 runs batted in this past season.
He has been tied to a few teams, which include the Orioles. ESPN's Jorge Castillo points out that Baltimore is a team to keep your eye on.
"At the GM meetings, Orioles general manager Mike Elias said he wanted to add a power hitter, preferably an outfielder, this offseason. Acquiring Taylor Ward for right-hander Grayson Rodriguez on Tuesday checked that box. But they could always add more slug and Alonso would give them plenty."
While the Orioles already added a power bat, they could certainly use another one. Playing in a division like the American League East means they need all the help they can get.
Adding Alonso would boost their contender status, and fans likely would not be too upset to see them move on from Ryan Mountcastle to someone of Alonso's stature.
But, of course, Baltimore is not the only club after Alonso. If they want to see him wearing their shade of orange next season, they will have to open up their checkbooks like they never have before.
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- Ryan Mountcastle blocked by prospects, named Orioles' top trade candidate
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