A top MLB insider has offered up a huge update on the Baltimore Orioles’ pursuit of a trade for Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease, and why it would be very surprising if a deal doesn’t get done before the start of the spring training.
Following an outstanding season where the team won the American League East for the first time since 2014, the Orioles have been following their usual strategy this offseason. Look to get better but don’t overspend in free agency or a trade.
That’s why it has been a fairly quiet offseason for the organization and the most notable move they have made so far was signing Craig Kimbrel to replace Felix Bautista, who will miss the season as he recovers from Tommy John surgery. However, in recent weeks they have been linked to a pair of trades for two of the best starting pitchers on the market.
Recent reports have connected the Baltimore Orioles to trades for aces Dylan Cease and Jesus Lozardo. However, it seems the White Sox and Marlins asking price is quite steep since they have the leverage of offering an impact starting pitcher without needing to give out a six-figure contract.
Baltimore Orioles schedule: Opening day on March 28 vs. Los Angeles Angels
On Sunday, The Athletic’s MLB insider Ken Rosenthal gave an update on the two trade chases for the team and admitted it seems like both have stalled. However, he also explained why — at least in the case of the White Sox — a deal seems like an eventuality.
Firstly, Rosenthal claims “no other team is as well-positioned to trade for a top starting pitcher” as the Orioles due to the impressive amount of assets the organization has in its farm system. Secondly, either team waiting until the trade deadline later this year would be a detriment to their goals.
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“The White Sox, Marlins, and other clubs willing to trade pitching know the time for the Orioles to strike is now,” Rosenthal wrote. “So, the usual staring contest is taking place. By keeping Cease until the deadline, the White Sox will risk him getting injured or pitching ineffectively, diminishing his value. By holding out for a more acceptable price, the Orioles might miss an opportunity that won’t come again.”
At this point, it seems like the two teams are made for each other since the Orioles can best help the Sox replenish their farm system — which is the alleged goal in a Cease trade — and the Orioles need to improve their rotation if they want to compete for a title in 2024.