Baltimore Orioles are linked to two-time World Series champion veteran starter

The Baltimore Orioles are in the same troubles as they were an offseason ago. As things stand, the Orioles need an ace.

Unless the front office has a trade they’re committed to, Baltimore will likely enter 2025 without a true top starter.

If the Orioles don’t find an ace, they’ll need to add another middle-order starter or two. Remember, Baltimore will add Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells back to its team at some point next season.

Both are expected to be on the injured list to start the year and it will take at least a few rehab assignments for them to return, but the Orioles will have them if things go as planned.

It’s a step in the right direction, but trusting two pitchers who have overcome serious injuries isn’t ideal. Bradish underwent Tommy John surgery while Wells underwent a UCL reconstruction.

Even if Baltimore adds an inning eater to its rotation, it could go a long way in 2025. An inning eater could allow the Orioles to get Bradish and Wells healthy while also giving others a start or two before October.

There are a few more options on the market, but none of them are true ace of arms.

Among the options they could pursue, Charlie Morton would be an interesting addition. Nick Deeds of MLB Trade Rumors called Baltimore a potential suitor for the veteran right-hander, adding that Morton wants to play Spring Training in Florida.

“Morton prefers to pitch for a team that hosts its spring training in Florida so he can stay close to home throughout the season. In addition to the Braves and Rays, the Orioles, Red Sox, Tigers, Astros, Blue Jays, Marlins, Twins, Mets, Yankees, Phillies, Pirates, Cardinals and Nationals all play in the Grapefruit League in the spring. Most of those teams face significant payroll constraints or are unlikely to help the rotation this winter, but the Orioles, Astros, Tigers and Mets could all be speculative potential destinations for the right-hander should he leave Atlanta.

At this stage of his career, Morton is an average arm. However, there is a reason why the 41-year-old will play in the major leagues for at least another season.

His 4.19 ERA in 2024 wasn’t great, but it wasn’t bad either. More importantly, he threw 165 1/3 innings, making it the fourth straight season in which he threw at least 163 1/3 innings.

For an Orioles staff that could use a reliable arm, Morton could be just that.