An Early Look at Baltimore Orioles 2019 Free Agent Options
By Nate Wardle
The Baltimore Orioles will head into 2019 with cash available to sign free agents, despite a desire to decrease salary at the major league level.
As the trade deadline passed and the calendar flipped to August, we have done a brief look ahead to 2019 for the Baltimore Orioles.
The conversation started by discussing the fact the Baltimore Orioles are headed for a full rebuild.
Then, we looked at what the Orioles’ salary numbers heading into the 2019 season looks like with players currently in the organization.
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Then, we looked at what the 40-man roster could look like in 2019, noting that there would likely be a few free agent signings.
So, where could the Orioles use some free agent reinforcements?
I doubt they would look to add a catcher. Sure, you could get an experienced catcher who has better numbers than Caleb Joseph, but you are rebuilding, and they should be turning to Chance Sisco to start the majority of games.
First base is locked down by Chris Davis, and you have Trey Mancini as a backup.
Since Jonathan Villar, Tim Beckham, Jace Peterson and the rest of the utility players are all, well… utility players, you have flexibility in the infield. However, it would probably be helpful to add someone to the mix, especially if Beckham continues to flounder defensively.
The outfield looks very young with Cedric Mullins, DJ Stewart, Joey Rickard, Mancini, and Anthony Santander. Mancini is now the veteran, my how times have changed. So, it wouldn’t hurt to bring in an established veteran who can serve as a mentor.
The starting rotation will look pretty similar to what it does now, as I can’t see anyone else ready to join the fray at the start of the season of the likes of Hunter Harvey, KeeganAkin, etc. ` So, it might not hurt to add another starter.
As for relievers, the team has a very young relief core, but one that can be successful. Again, a relatively cheap veteran here would be useful.
So, what positions should the Orioles look at? Relief pitcher, Starting pitcher, outfielder, and an infielder.
Now, let’s remember, in most cases, the Orioles are not going to be the first team players want to go to. They are rebuilding, and don’t look to be very good for at least a year. However, overpaying can work wonders in some cases.
Relief Pitchers
There are a number of very good relievers hitting the market after the 2018 season. Several of these are closers, several are set up men.
Free agent relievers:
Zach Britton
David Robertson
Cody Allen
Craig Kimbrel
A.J. Ramos
Andrew Miller
Brad Ziegler
Kelvin Herrera
Jeurys Familiar
Ryan Madson
Jerry Blevins
Tony Sipp
David Phelps
Daniel Hudson
Brad Brach
Shawn Kelley
Jim Johnson
Justin Wilson
Joe Kelly
Adam Ottavino
Adam Warren
Bud Norris
Jake Diekman
Sergio Romo
Zach McAllister
Aaron Loup
Tyler Clippard
Jesse Chavez
John Axford
Craig Breslow
Carter Capps
That is the better names of the 80 available relief pitchers. Now, before you start clamoring for Britton, Kimbrel, Miller, etc., the Baltimore Orioles aren’t going to be paying closer money here. Sure, the guy might be pitching the 7th or 8th, but rebuilding teams don’t need established closers.
Top choices:
Justin Wilson
Adam Ottavino
Tony Sipp
Jake Diekman