The Baltimore Orioles are making it clear they are committed to building a championship-caliber roster for the 2024 season. After a successful 2023 campaign that saw the team make a surprising run to the American League Division Series, the Orioles’ front office is focused on reinforcing the pitching staff, particularly the starting rotation. Despite a solid season from their rotation, the Orioles understand that to compete for a World Series title, they need to add more depth and stability to their starting pitchers.

 

### A Promising But Incomplete Rotation

 

In 2023, the Orioles’ starting rotation exceeded expectations, with standout performances from the likes of Kyle Gibson, Dean Kremer, and rookie Grayson Rodriguez. However, the rotation as a whole struggled with consistency at times, and injuries to key pitchers like John Means, who was recovering from Tommy John surgery, added to the team’s uncertainty. The front office is clearly looking to address this gap as they search for more experienced and reliable options to solidify the rotation going into 2024.

 

Despite their strong performance last season, the Orioles’ rotation ranked just 15th in the league in ERA (4.33) and 14th in WHIP (1.29). These middle-of-the-pack rankings demonstrate that while their staff was serviceable, it wasn’t enough to push them deep into October. They need a higher level of reliability and ace-level production, particularly in the playoff race.

 

### The Orioles’ Pursuit of Starting Pitching

 

The front office has made it clear they are on the hunt for upgrades in the starting pitching department. Executive vice president and general manager Mike Elias has emphasized the need to add more stability to the rotation, especially with the team’s long-term goal of competing for championships. Several options are currently on the radar, as the Orioles are reportedly targeting both trade and free-agent options to bolster their starting staff.

 

One of the most notable names linked to the Orioles this offseason is Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who is one of the top free-agent targets after an outstanding career with the Orix Buffaloes in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Yamamoto is considered one of the best pitchers to ever come out of Japan, boasting a career ERA of 2.31 with a dominant strikeout rate. His potential to step into a front-line role in the MLB has many teams, including the Orioles, closely monitoring his situation. The Orioles are known for their strong player development system, and adding a high-caliber pitcher like Yamamoto could accelerate their World Series ambitions.

 

Other veteran free-agent options include veterans like Aaron Nola and Sonny Gray. Nola, an established ace with the Philadelphia Phillies, brings years of consistency and playoff experience. His ability to pitch deep into games and handle pressure situations would provide the Orioles with a much-needed veteran presence. Similarly, Gray’s stellar 2023 season with the Minnesota Twins has many suitors eyeing him. Both pitchers would be significant upgrades to the rotation, offering the type of stability and experience the Orioles need to take the next step.

 

### Trade Options and Internal Candidates

 

While the free-agent market offers several promising options, the Orioles are also open to exploring trades for starting pitchers. Given their deep farm system, they have the assets to pursue high-profile trade targets. Names like Shane Bieber of the Cleveland Guardians and Dylan Cease of the Chicago White Sox have been mentioned as potential trade candidates. Adding one of these top-tier pitchers would immediately elevate the Orioles’ rotation and provide another high-level arm alongside Grayson Rodriguez and others.

 

The Orioles also have internal candidates who could step up and improve the rotation. John Means, who is returning from injury, could be a key piece if he returns to form. There is also hope that top pitching prospect Colton Cowser, currently recovering from a minor injury, could emerge as a contributor down the line.

 

### Looking Ahead to the 2024 Season

 

With the 2024 season quickly approaching, the Orioles are making their intentions clear—they are committed to winning. While their offense, led by players like Adley Rutschman and Cedric Mullins, is already formidable, the pitching staff remains the key area to address. If the Orioles can successfully add a top-tier starting pitcher, whether through free agency or trade, they will be a much stronger contender in the American League and a more dangerous team in the postseason.

 

As the winter months unfold, all eyes will be on Baltimore as they work to finalize their starting rotation for the 2024 season, aiming to make a deeper postseason run and continue their impressive rebuilding trajectory.