Orioles Target Starting Pitcher and Outfield in Offseason Push

The Baltimore Orioles have set a clear path for their first offseason under new general manager Jared Banner, prioritizing the acquisition of a frontline starting pitcher and additional outfield talent. The front office is also targeting left-handed relief options and catching depth to address specific gaps in the roster. These moves are part of an effort to return the team to the postseason after two consecutive losing seasons.

Banner and President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias presented this plan at Major League Baseball’s general managers meetings in Las Vegas on Tuesday. Although they have only been working together for a few weeks, the two executives described a synchronized approach to rebuilding the club. They emphasized a proactive stance on the market despite the threat of a lockout beginning in December. The organization has scheduled numerous meetings with agents representing potential free agents. One source noted that the Orioles’ list includes Scott Boras, who represents outfielder Randy Arozarena and left-handed pitcher Tarik Skubal.

The Orioles are focused on retaining left-handed pitcher Trevor Rogers, either through a new contract or his acceptance of a one-year qualifying offer by the November 17 deadline. Elias stated the team would like to keep Rogers because his power lefty arm fits well into the rotation. "We’d like to retain him," Elias said. "He was terrific for us the last year and a half, and having a big, power lefty like that fits in so well with our rotation." The front office remains open to signing more than one starting pitcher if the opportunity arises.

Defensive improvements are a primary goal for the 2027 season, as the Orioles led all of baseball in unearned runs allowed last year. Banner said the team wants a quality defender at every position and will investigate any method to achieve that standard. Elias identified three areas for improvement: player effort, roster construction, and analytics-based positioning. "I know this has been a theme the last couple years, and our defense has been worse than it should be," Elias said. He expressed confidence that new analytical tools developed in recent years will help the front office make better decisions on field placement.

The club views its infield as its strongest area, with enough depth to allow athletic infielders to play outfield if needed. Manager Craig Albernaz has begun discussing these potential role changes with several players. While the Orioles are willing to listen to trade offers for most roster members, Elias clarified that they are not actively motivated to sell key pieces. "It doesn’t mean we’re motivated to trade players," Elias said. He described it as "very unlikely" that core players like shortstop Gunnar Henderson would be moved in the near term.

The organization also cited its pitching farm system as a major asset, which Elias described as the best he has seen during his tenure. Right-hander Anthony Eyanson, acquired from Boston in the Adley Rutschman trade, is ranked as the team's top prospect by Baseball America. Eyanson posted a 1.54 ERA in 99 1/3 minor league innings during the 2026 season. Elias said Eyanson has a realistic chance of breaking into the major league camp, alongside right-hander Michael Forret and left-handers Caden Hunter and Joseph Dzierwa. All four pitchers are expected to reach the majors in 2027.

Catcher Carlos Narváez, who hit .104 in 33 games last season, will remain part of the catching setup alongside Samuel Basallo. Elias said he expects a better version of Narváez based on his track record and current work ethic. The front office considers the current catching duo comfortable but remains open to adding depth if the right opportunity presents itself during the offseason.