Baltimore Orioles Rumored Ace Deadline Target Reportedly ‘Won’t Be Traded’
As the 2024 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Baltimore Orioles have been linked to several high-profile starting pitchers who could bolster their rotation for a potential postseason run. However, a new report suggests that one of their rumored targets, Cal Quantrill of the Colorado Rockies, is unlikely to be traded this season.
The Orioles, who currently sit atop the AL East standings with a 55-32 record, have been active in the trade market in recent years, acquiring the likes of Trey Mancini and Mychal Givens to help their playoff push. This year, with a talented roster and a strong farm system, they are expected to be buyers once again as they look to secure their first playoff berth since 2016[1].
One of the names that has been floated as a potential trade target for the Orioles is Quantrill, a 28-year-old right-hander who has been a steady presence in the Rockies’ rotation since 2021. In 19 starts this season, Quantrill has posted a 3.86 ERA and a 1.24 WHIP, with 89 strikeouts in 116.2 innings pitched[2].
However, according to a report from The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, the Rockies are unlikely to trade Quantrill, even if they fall out of contention in the NL West. Bowden cites Quantrill’s team-friendly contract, which runs through 2027 with club options for 2028 and 2029, as a major reason why Colorado is hesitant to move him.
The Orioles, who have one of the best farm systems in baseball, have the prospect capital to potentially entice the Rockies to part with Quantrill. However, with Colorado still in the playoff hunt and Quantrill under team control for several more years, it appears that the asking price for the right-hander may be too high for Baltimore’s liking[3].
Despite the setback in their pursuit of Quantrill, the Orioles are still expected to be active at the trade deadline as they look to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run. With a strong lineup led by Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Anthony Santander, the Orioles have the offensive firepower to compete with any team in the American League[1].
However, the team’s pitching staff has been hit hard by injuries this season, with several key starters missing significant time. As a result, the Orioles may look to add another arm to their rotation to provide depth and stability heading into the stretch run[1].
One potential trade target for the Orioles could be Garrett Crochet of the Chicago White Sox. The hard-throwing left-hander has been dominant out of the bullpen this season, posting a 1.93 ERA and a 0.86 WHIP in 37.1 innings pitched. However, with the White Sox struggling to stay in the playoff race, Crochet could be available for the right price[3].
Another option for the Orioles could be Jesus Luzardo of the Miami Marlins. The 26-year-old left-hander has been one of the best pitchers in the National League this season, posting a 2.87 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP in 19 starts. However, with the Marlins in a rebuilding phase, they may be open to moving Luzardo for a package of prospects[2].
Ultimately, the Orioles’ success at the trade deadline will depend on their ability to find the right balance between acquiring top-tier talent and maintaining their long-term outlook. With a talented roster and a strong farm system, the Orioles are in a good position to make a splash at the deadline and position themselves for a deep playoff run[1].
However, as the Quantrill situation illustrates, not every trade target will be available, and the Orioles may need to get creative in their pursuit of pitching help. Whether they land Crochet, Luzardo, or another top arm remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Orioles will be a team to watch as the trade deadline approaches[2][3].