The Baltimore Orioles have had a strong start to the 2021 MLB season, currently sitting atop the American League East division with a record of 31-19. However, as the trade deadline approaches, it’s clear that the Orioles will need to make some moves if they want to solidify their position as a top contender for the playoffs. With that in mind, here are three potential trade candidates that the Orioles should consider before the deadline.
1. Max Scherzer, Washington Nationals
The first trade candidate that the Orioles should consider is none other than Max Scherzer of the Washington Nationals. Scherzer is a proven ace and has been one of the best pitchers in the league for years. He has a career ERA of 3.19 and is known for his dominant strikeout numbers. Adding Scherzer to the Orioles’ rotation would give them a much-needed boost and solidify their starting pitching for a deep playoff run.
The Nationals are currently in fourth place in the National League East and are likely to be sellers at the deadline. Scherzer is in the final year of his contract and will become a free agent at the end of the season, making him an attractive rental for the Orioles. While the Nationals may ask for a hefty return for Scherzer, the Orioles have a strong farm system and should be willing to part with some top prospects for a chance at a World Series title.
2. Joey Gallo, Texas Rangers
Another trade candidate that the Orioles should consider is outfielder Joey Gallo of the Texas Rangers. Gallo is a power-hitting lefty who would add some much-needed pop to the Orioles’ lineup. He has hit 20 or more home runs in each of the last four seasons and is on pace to do so again this year. Gallo also has a strong on-base percentage, making him a valuable asset for any team.
The Rangers are currently in last place in the American League West and are likely to be sellers at the deadline. Gallo is under team control until 2022, so the Orioles would not only be getting a power bat for this season but also for the next. While the Rangers may ask for some top prospects in return, the Orioles should seriously consider making a move for Gallo to boost their offense for a deep playoff run.
3. Josh Hader, Milwaukee Brewers
The final trade candidate that the Orioles should consider is reliever Josh Hader of the Milwaukee Brewers. Hader is one of the best closers in the league and has been dominant since his debut in 2017. He has a career ERA of 2.48 and has recorded 62 saves in his career. Adding Hader to the Orioles’ bullpen would give them a lockdown closer and solidify their late-game pitching.
The Brewers are currently in first place in the National League Central and may be hesitant to part with Hader. However, with the Orioles in need of a dominant closer, they should at least explore the possibility of a trade. Hader is under team control until 2024, so the Orioles would not only be getting a valuable asset for this season but also for the next few years.
In conclusion, the Baltimore Orioles have a strong team but will need to make some moves before the trade deadline if they want to make a deep playoff run. Max Scherzer, Joey Gallo, and Josh Hader are all potential trade candidates that could give the Orioles the boost they need to compete for a World Series title. While these trades may come at a cost, the potential payoff of a championship would be well worth it for the Orioles and their fans. Let’s hope that the Orioles make the right moves and continue their success on the field.
