There were hints that the Baltimore Orioles were ready for primetime after last year’s 83-win season, but now this is a club in first place of the AL East, and they’re looking to buy at MLB’s trade deadline. That constant drive to improve could even lead to a trade for Justin Verlander.
That’s the latest from MLB insider Jon Morosi, who indicates the Orioles are a “team to watch” thanks to having the prospects to be considered a finalist for “any trade” that arises before the August 1 deadline.
Despite having their own goals to compete, the New York Mets have already begun their firesale, headlined by trading Max Scherzer, but now another big move could be on the way. There’s been talk of a potential Verlander trade, but the former MVP and three-time Cy Young winner would have to waive his no-trade clause first.
Yet, the 40-year-old may not have an issue getting out of New York, and into a situation where he can compete for a chance to win what would be his third World Series championship. The Orioles have shown to be a worthy opponent, but have a serious lack of high-end pitching leading their rotation.
Even though Verlander isn’t having the same Cy Young-worthy campaign as we saw last season, he’s still performing strongly, with a 3.15 ERA through 16 starts with the Mets. He’d be an immediate upgrade and a valued member of a young clubhouse in Baltimore.
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