The Baltimore Orioles have made a notable addition to their outfield, signing former St. Louis Cardinals and Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Dylan Carlson to a one-year contract. This move is part of the team’s ongoing effort to improve its roster as they aim to build on their success from the 2023 season. Carlson, 24, brings a mix of potential, versatility, and solid defensive skills to a young Orioles team that is seeking to make a deeper playoff run in the coming seasons.
Carlson’s career to this point has been marked by both flashes of promise and stretches of inconsistency. Originally drafted by the Cardinals as a first-round pick in 2016, Carlson made his MLB debut with the team in 2020. Over his first three seasons in the majors, Carlson showed glimpses of his potential, including a solid 2021 campaign where he posted a .266 batting average with 18 home runs and 65 RBIs. His defense in the outfield has also been well-regarded, as he is known for his strong arm and ability to cover ground in center and right field.
However, Carlson’s 2023 season was less productive, as he struggled with injuries and saw his playing time diminish. He appeared in just 63 games for the Cardinals, hitting .242 with seven home runs and 32 RBIs. Despite the down year, the Orioles are hopeful that Carlson can return to his form from earlier seasons and provide a much-needed boost to their lineup.
For the Orioles, this signing offers several benefits. First and foremost, Carlson provides depth to an outfield that has been solid, but not without its question marks. With standout players like Austin Hays and Cedric Mullins already in place, Carlson’s arrival adds another layer of flexibility and competition for playing time. Carlson’s ability to play all three outfield positions allows manager Brandon Hyde to rotate players and keep the lineup fresh throughout the season.
Additionally, Carlson’s switch-hitting ability gives the Orioles another valuable asset in terms of lineup balance. While he hasn’t always been a consistent offensive force, his ability to hit from both sides of the plate makes him an intriguing option in a variety of spots in the batting order. If he can regain his 2021 form, he could provide the Orioles with added pop in the middle of their lineup.
Beyond his potential as a hitter, Carlson’s reputation as a strong defensive outfielder fits well with the Orioles’ team philosophy. The team has emphasized solid defense as part of its overall strategy, and Carlson’s glove could help stabilize the outfield alongside the likes of Hays and Mullins. His experience in the majors, combined with his familiarity with competing in the National League Central and AL East, could be valuable as the Orioles look to contend in a competitive American League East division.
While the one-year deal for Carlson may not be a game-changer on paper, it represents a low-risk, high-reward move for the Orioles. If Carlson can regain his previous form and stay healthy, he has the potential to be a significant contributor to the team. And if he doesn’t, the one-year commitment gives the Orioles the flexibility to explore other options for 2026.
In any case, the addition of Dylan Carlson to the Orioles’ roster adds an exciting new element to their outfield, and it will be interesting to see how he fits into their plans for the upcoming season.