With spring training camps on the horizon, the Baltimore Orioles are diligently assembling their team for the upcoming season. The Orioles are actively engaging with both the free-agent and trade markets, aiming to fill key positions on their roster to bolster their 2025 campaign. In their pursuit of excellence, they have secured the talents of pitcher Charlie Morton, a significant move as they hunt for additional reinforcements, particularly a frontline starter, an experienced reliever, and a versatile bench player.
Under the ownership of billionaire David Rubenstein, the Orioles are navigating their financial commitments with an estimated payroll for 2025 set to reach $136 million. This marks a striking difference from past expenditures; notably, the team’s Opening Day payroll in 2016 was $148 million, substantially higher than last year's $93 million payroll. These figures reflect a strategic reshaping of financial priorities and objectives as they aim to compete in a tough division.
Roki Sasaki's Intriguing Offseason
Amid the roster-building activity lies the intriguing case of Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki. Ranked as the seventh-best free agent available this offseason, Sasaki has quickly become a hot commodity. Curiously, while several teams have actively pursued him, the Boston Red Sox notably abstained from holding an in-person meeting. In contrast, the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees have all made their interest clear through direct interactions.
Despite the buzz around Sasaki, his international signing constraints present a unique circumstance. He is limited to signing a minor-league contract with a signing bonus capped at $10 million, as dictated by international bonus pool rules. These restrictions add a layer of complexity to his potential signing and impact where he might ultimately decide to showcase his talents stateside.
Cardinals Enter Reset Mode
Elsewhere in Major League Baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals are amid a transformation under the guidance of their President of Baseball Operations, John Mozeliak. Emphasizing a "reset," the Cardinals are reevaluating their strategy and composition, particularly focusing on strengthening their bullpen. Seeking a "robust late-inning reliever," the team has identified a few key targets still available on the market. Veteran relievers such as Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates remain unsigned, providing options for the Cardinals as they look to enhance their playoff aspirations.
In addition to these seasoned arms, Jeff Hoffman and Tanner Scott, ranked Nos. 24 and 27 on the top 50 free agents list respectively, are also in the mix as available talent. The Cardinals’ pursuit of bullpen improvements reflects a broader organizational shift aimed at returning to postseason contention.
Aiming for Success
As the off-season progresses, teams across the league, including the Orioles and the Cardinals, continue to assess and address their rosters, setting the stage for a competitive 2025 season. With the international signing period set to begin on January 15 and run through January 23, significant player movements and strategic decisions lie just around the corner. Baseball fans can expect an active and dynamic market as clubs finalize their squads in preparation for the challenges of the new season.
It is a time of rejuvenation and expectation across the MLB landscape, and the moves made now will undeniably shape the narratives and successes of the season ahead.