The Baltimore Orioles rotation for the 2024 MLB season looked strong after the team acquired Corbin Burnes. However, recent injury news on two starters potentially could push Baltimore back into the trade market for pitching depth ahead of Opening Day.
As the team reported for spring training, Baltimore announced that Kyle Bradish would start the season on the injured list with a UCL sprain. In addition, starter John Means is being brought along slowly after being sidelined at the end of the year with elbow soreness.
- Baltimore Orioles rotation stats (2023): 4.14 ERA (11th in MLB), 8.37 K/9 (18th in MLB), 1.23 WHIP (9th in MLB), .244 batting average allowed (13th in MLB)
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The injury setback raised serious questions about Baltimore’s rotation, largely because of its lack of depth. With two of its most important starters both now working their way back from elbow issues, it appears revisiting previous trade talks could be on the horizon for Baltimore.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Orioles and Miami Marlins had “extensive talks” this winter about a trade involving starting pitcher Jesus Luzardo. With Bradish headed to the IL and Means now uncertain for Opening Day, the MLB insider believes those trade talks could be revisited now.
Even with Sandy Alcantara sidelined for the entire 2024 MLB season, Miami is open to dealing some of its pitching depth. While hurler Edward Cabrera is often mentioned as a trade candidate for Miami, the Orioles seem to be interested in Luzardo.
- Jesus Luzardo stats 2023: 3.58 ERA, 10.48 K/9, 1.11 HR/9, 1.21 WHIP, .238 batting average allowed in 178.2 innings pitched
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Luzardo, who has already been traded twice during his professional career, would provide Baltimore with a cost-controlled starter. The 26-year-old southpaw is arbitration-eligible through the 2026 season, before becoming a free agent as a 29-year-old.
With one of the best farm systems in baseball, Baltimore would be well-equipped to pull off a trade for Luzardo and it has the depth of hitting prospects to match nicely with what the Marlins are looking for. Considering the two clubs held extensive talks this offseason, it’s very possible any further injury issues to the Orioles rotation could prompt a deal to be made.
