Proposed Baltimore Orioles Trade Acquires Starting Pitcher with ERA Below 3.00
The Baltimore Orioles ought to seriously weigh this trade for a pitcher ahead of the upcoming MLB deadline.
The Baltimore Orioles have a pressing need for starting pitching as the MLB trade deadline approaches. With injuries to Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells forcing bullpen pitchers into expanded roles, there’s a clear urgency to shore up the rotation, especially with postseason hopes uncertain.
The Orioles front office is intent on acquiring quality pitching without sacrificing their top prospects. Zach Pressnell of FanSided has proposed a trade package with the Chicago Cubs that could address both needs effectively.
According to the proposed deal, the Cubs would send Jameson Taillon and cash considerations to the Orioles in exchange for infielder Mac Horvath and right-handed pitcher Trace Bright.
Taillon has been enjoying a standout season with a 2.99 ERA and a strong 1.156 WHIP across 15 appearances. His effectiveness on the mound, characterized by inducing weak contact and minimizing home runs, has been bolstered by his improved cutter usage.
Despite Taillon’s performance, his affordability is due to his current four-year, $68 million contract, which the Cubs would likely need to subsidize to facilitate the trade.
In return, Baltimore would part with promising assets. Mac Horvath, a second-round pick from the 2023 MLB draft out of the University of North Carolina, has shown potential with a blend of speed and power in the minors, including eight home runs and 22 stolen bases this season.
Meanwhile, Trace Bright, a 23-year-old right-hander, has exhibited progress in Double-A with a 4.65 ERA and improved control.
While not as flashy as Horvath, Bright could develop into a dependable back-end starter in the future.
The proposed trade presents a strategic opportunity for the Orioles to bolster their pitching staff while retaining long-term potential in their farm system, positioning them to address immediate needs and future aspirations in equal measure.
