The Baltimore Orioles strategy for the 2017 MLB Trade Deadline becomes more clear as Orioles owner Peter Angelos approves exploring trade options for the Orioles top relievers andSeth Smith.
FOX Sports’Ken Rosenthalreported yesterday thatBaltimore OriolesVice President of Baseball Operations Dan Duquette received the green light to seek trades for the Orioles’ core set of relievers such as former all-starsDarren O’Day,Brad Brach, andZach Britton.
While it may seem that selling off these pieces would mean the Orioles are throwing in the towel, the organization is capable of producing bullpen pieces. Take for example our current composition.
Darren O’Day was claimed off of waivers after getting designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers. The rest is history as the submarine pitcher has been an integral part of the bullpen. Since 2012, O’Day has played in 341 games for an ERA of 2.32.
More from Baltimore Orioles
- What other Baltimore Orioles Offseason Storylines will you be interested in seeing?
- Baltimore Orioles to Face Numerous Playoff Contenders Down the Stretch
- Baltimore Orioles Showing Encouraging Signs During Recent Wins
- The Baltimore Orioles and the Expanded September Roster
- Orioles Josh Rogers Expectations in his Major League Debut
Britton struggled as a starter for the Baltimore Orioles. After running out of minor league options, some experimenting in the minor leagues led to the discovery of his notorious power sinker. The reigning AL Reliever of the Year continues to miss bats.
Brach, a 43rd round draft pick, was a minor acquisition that cost a minor league pitcher named Devin Jones. Mr. Jones is now retired while Brach in 219 games as a bird has a 2.19 ERA.
These top three players have proven their worth time and time again. However, the next batch is promising.
Future of the Baltimore Orioles
Mychal Givensis a prime example of a player drafted as a short stop but made a move to pitcher. Givens is now an important set-up man and soon to be closer. He currently sports a 2.09 ERA along with 9.32 K/9.
When the Orioles needed help last season in the bullpen, specifically with lefty pitching,Donnie Hartcame to the rescue. Hart was summoned from the minors and brought on as a lefty specialist. He is currently riding a 2.63 ERA.
Just this off-season,Richard BleierandMiguel Castrowere two acquisitions that were barely sticking on the 40 man rosters. After a few minor trades were made, these two have stepped up in a big way by having the ability to pitch multiple innings and getting outs.
Jimmy YacabonisandStefan Crichtonhave shown plus fastballs and hope to develop consistency with their secondary stuff overtime.Tanner Scotthas an electric fastball combined with an average slider that has proven to be efficient and has generated national attention as he participated in the MLB Futures Game.
LeftyChris Lee, while struggling as a starter this season at Norfolk, contains a plus fastball that can generate a lot of ground ball outs. In fact, the pitch’s movement has drawn similarities to Britton’s fastball.
Optimism for 2017 and beyond
Even if the Baltimore Orioles decided to sell the more proven pieces of the bullpen, the team has reason to believe they can compete for years to come. The prospect haul in return could push the Orioles in the right direction.
Next: Orioles be sellers and playoff contenders in 2017?
In a time where organizations are hungry to build their bullpen by adding proven relievers, the Orioles have shown how under the radar trades and the farm system can save costs and work.
Add us as a preferred source onGoogleLoading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations