The Orioles Off-Season; Early Thoughts – Option 2

Chris Stoner outlines an alternative offseason strategy for the Baltimore Orioles centered on aggressive roster reshaping and defensive upgrades. Under this proposal, Baltimore would trade infielder Jackson Holliday and outfielder Dylan Beavers for a controllable starting pitcher, release Tyler O'Neill while absorbing his $16.5 million contract, and let Trevor Rogers depart. Stoner suggests making Samuel Basallo the primary catcher for 110 games, opening designated hitter at-bats for Coby Mayo.

The plan also proposes acquiring high-profile talent through free agency, including signing center fielder Daulton Varsho and starter Casey Mize, alongside a high-leverage reliever such as Adrian Morejon or David Bednar. Stoner argues this approach prioritizes run prevention and outfield defense, elevating Baltimore's roster toward potential 90-win contention despite offensive trade-offs.