Amidst talks of a potential franchise sale, the Baltimore Orioles made headlines with a blockbuster trade on Thursday evening, securing former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers.
This move signifies a significant step for the Orioles, who are coming off an impressive 101-win season and now add Burnes, a frontline starting pitcher, to their roster. Burnes boasts an impressive track record, including a stellar 2.94 ERA over the past three years and a Cy Young award win in 2021.
In exchange for Burnes, the Brewers received pitcher DL Hall, shortstop Joey Ortiz, and a 2024 competitive balance pick. Burnes, 29, is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season, prompting speculation about his future with the Orioles, particularly with potential changes in ownership.
Acknowledging Burnes’ contributions, Brewers General Manager Matt Arnold expressed gratitude for his role in the team’s recent success.
With Burnes now part of the Orioles, he immediately becomes the ace of their rotation, joining promising talents like Kyle Bradish, Grayson Rodriguez, John Means, and Dean Kremer. Bradish impressed with a 2.83 ERA last season, while Rodriguez showed growth in the latter half of 2023.
Meanwhile, Hall and Ortiz head to Milwaukee as part of the trade. Hall, a former first-round pick, made his MLB debut in 2022 and showed promise out of the bullpen. Ortiz, known for his versatility and offensive skills, made a mark in the Orioles’ system before his big-league promotion in 2023.
The acquisition of Burnes underscores the Orioles’ commitment to strengthening their roster and competing at a high level. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, the addition of Burnes adds excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead, amidst the backdrop of potential changes in ownership.
