Baltimore Orioles Make Blockbuster Trade for Cy Young Winner
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the baseball world, the Baltimore Orioles have acquired ace pitcher Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers. The Orioles gave up top prospect DL Hall, promising infielder Joey Ortiz, and a compensatory draft pick to secure the services of the former Cy Young award winner.
This trade has instantly transformed the Orioles’ offseason from lackluster to exceptional. While they had been relatively quiet in free agency, signing only closer Craig Kimbrel, the addition of Burnes brings a much-needed boost to their pitching staff. With the loss of key players like Kyle Gibson and Jack Flaherty, the Orioles were in dire need of a true ace to lead their rotation.
Burnes, with his impressive career ERA of 3.26, is exactly what the Orioles needed. Last season, he posted a solid 3.39 ERA with the Brewers and recorded an impressive 200 strikeouts. In his Cy Young-winning season, Burnes boasted a remarkable 2.43 ERA. At the age of 28, he is still in his prime and has the potential to dominate opposing hitters.
The Orioles’ starting rotation for the upcoming 2024 season is now a force to be reckoned with. Alongside Burnes, the team will feature promising young pitchers Kyle Bradish and Grayson Rodriguez. Bradish had a breakout year in 2023, recording a stellar 2.83 ERA in 168.2 innings pitched. Rodriguez, after a stint in the minor leagues, came back strong with a 2.58 ERA in 76.2 innings.
The addition of Burnes has pushed John Means, the former ace of the Orioles, down to the fourth spot in the rotation. This speaks volumes about the improved depth and quality of the pitching staff. Means, who was once the shining star during the team’s darkest days, is now a reliable and formidable fourth starter.
With their revamped rotation, the Orioles are poised to make a serious run in the 2024 season. After winning the most games in the American League last year, they fell short in the playoffs. However, with Burnes leading the way, the team now has a true workhorse for October. Fans can’t help but feel optimistic about the upcoming campaign and the potential for a happy ending.
