Leading the American League East going into the All-Star break is the Orioles. But if they’re going to stay there, something has to happen. The Orioles have high hopes after an incredible 2023 season. Their 58-38 record throughout the first half of the 2024 season proves they have met them. They are now level with one another for the second-most wins in MLB history. However, the Orioles have had difficulty lately. The Orioles were 3-7 in their last ten games prior to the break. There have to be modifications because something isn’t working. The Orioles need to send someone to the bench more frequently, make a trade, and make a call-up. Important Pieces The Orioles Need To Trade For To Have A Successful Second Half A Starting Pitcher.
The Orioles’ pitchers have been plagued by injuries. The Orioles have had difficulty finding internal replacements for Kyle Bradish, John Means, Tyler Wells, and Felix Bautista, who are all out for the season. First and foremost, they must search outside the company. Guys like Tarik Skubal and Garrett Crochet have always been thought of as potential candidates. The Orioles can also acquire lower-level starters like Jack Flaherty. The Orioles also have the resources to go acquire a quality pitcher. The MLB pipeline has three of their prospects in the top 15. If the Orioles trade for a starter, their prospects of winning a World Series for the first time since 1983 will be greatly increased.
Coby Mayo Needs To Be Called Up
As previously mentioned, the Orioles have a surplus of minor-league talent. Coby Mayo is right near the top of that list, ranked as the number 15 prospect in baseball by MLB.com.
Mayo has put up elite numbers in Triple-A Norfolk so far this season. He has hit a .301 Batting Average and has slugged 19 home runs. Mayo is ready for the next step up. However, there is currently not a spot for Mayo on the big league roster. But there should be. Ramon Urias has had a below-average season and provides almost zero upside compared to a future star in Mayo. Also, Jorge Mateo, while his speed may be valuable come playoff time, has provided very little offensively during the last month. Recently, Orioles General Manager Mike Elias said Coby Mayo would be a contributor during the second half of the season for the Orioles. Elias needs to keep his word because if Mayo gets a chance, he will shine.
James McCann Needs To Play Less
Although known as a lefty killer, James McCann has been anything but that this year. McCann has a measly .573 OPS against left-handers and just a .590 OPS overall. It is a mystery why he has played in 41 games so far this year and caught in all but 1 game. Adley Rutschman, the Orioles All-Star catcher, has caught just over half of the Orioles games. Frankly, that is not enough for someone who is the face of the franchise. McCann needs to see the field no more than twice a week because his bat provides nothing, and his defense is below average. Overall, McCann finds himself in the lineup way more than he should and doesn’t give the Orioles any spark.
The Last Word
Overall, the Orioles need to make changes if they want a chance at a ring. But the changes are doable and realistic. Elite teams generally are willing to make moves to improve their roster. The Orioles are already an elite team with the tools and pieces to take their roster to the next level.
