In the aftermath of a disappointing 2025 season, where the Baltimore Orioles ranked near the bottom in runs scored and allowed, the organization is taking an aggressive approach to improvement. With an emphasis on both pitching and lineup enhancements, president of baseball operations Mike Elias has signaled that the team’s struggles cannot solely be attributed to one aspect of the game.
The Orioles’ offense finished 24th in runs scored, while the pitching staff allowed the sixth-most runs, indicating a collective failure that calls for comprehensive changes. Consequently, the Orioles are now actively seeking to revitalize their roster.
The team was reportedly in the running for designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, who ultimately chose to rejoin the Philadelphia Phillies on a lucrative five-year, $150 million deal. Notably, the Orioles had matched that offer, which underscores their commitment to bolstering the lineup. With Schwarber off the market, attention has now shifted to first baseman Pete Alonso, who is also generating significant interest from other clubs.
Elias has articulated a strong strategy which involves pursuing both top-tier hitters and notable starting pitchers, such as Ranger Suárez and Michael King. This dual approach signifies a newfound aggression by the organization’s management, a shift that many fans hope will lead to substantial improvements on the field.
With a current estimated payroll of $118 million, the Orioles have room to maneuver financially, presenting them with the opportunity to make multiple impactful acquisitions. Elias indicated that the ownership group is willing to stretch the budget to ensure the team enhances its competitive edge, even if it means operating in the red temporarily. He expressed confidence that there is significant flexibility to make multiple moves before the upcoming season.
The Orioles’ earlier payroll stood at $160 million, leaving approximately $42 million available to potentially match or increase that figure. Elias has emphasized that the organization is keen on winning and is prepared to make the necessary financial commitments to support that objective.
While Schwarber could have provided vital run production and eased the burden on players like Gunnar Henderson, Alonso represents another strong option with a proven track record. Coming off a season in which he belted 38 home runs with a .272 batting average and an .871 OPS, Alonso’s addition would certainly boost Baltimore’s offensive capabilities.
Agent Scott Boras, representing Alonso, noted that various teams are interested in the first baseman, indicating that the competition in acquiring him will be fierce. Despite concerns about Alonso’s defensive metrics—he recorded a below-average performance last season—the Orioles seem more focused on the potential offensive benefits he brings rather than the defensive implications.
While the team also has several right-handed first basemen, including Ryan Mountcastle and Coby Mayo, their depth at various positions could be leveraged to facilitate trades aimed at acquiring pitchers. The organization appears to prioritize landing an impactful bat while seeking ways to shore up its rotation.
As the offseason progresses, the Orioles understand that enhancing the roster requires addressing deficiencies across the board, and they seem poised to make strategic moves that could significantly reshape their prospects for the coming season.
