Three moves Baltimore Orioles should make this offseason
By David Hill
The Baltimore Orioles are a long way from contending. They ended the 2021 season with over 100 losses once again, marking the third consecutive complete season where that was the case. Although there are some bright spots in the farm system, those losing ways do not appear to be changing any time soon.
But that does not mean that the Orioles should not be looking ahead to those days. With some of their top prospects on the cusp of the majors, they could have an intriguing roster soon. At this point, it is a matter of finding pieces that can either help supplement that core. Or, as has been the case, they could add pieces for 2022 that could be flipped at the deadline.
Three moves for the Baltimore Orioles
Chances are, the offseason will be relatively quiet in Baltimore. The front office is not in a position to make many splashes, but that does not mean that nothing will be done. There is plenty of work left to do, and with the first overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, that could involve adding even more to the minors.
Let’s take a look at three moves the Baltimore Orioles should make this offseason.
Extend Trey Mancini
The Baltimore Orioles will need to have several veterans that have been around the block. Players who know what the Oriole Way means, who can help those youngsters develop while showing them the ropes of the majors.
As it turns out, they already have the perfect player to do so on their roster. Trey Mancini has been an inspiration for the Orioles, and Major League Baseball in general, as he battled Stage 3 colon cancer. The fact that he was not only able to return this year, but play at a high level, is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
That type of leadership rubs off. Players will see him grinding, doing everything possible to get back on the diamond and perform at a high level. Knowing his history, and what he means to the organization, the younger players will want to be viewed in that same light.
It all starts by ensuring that Mancini is around for the long haul. He is just 29 years old, and still has part of his prime ahead of him. Even if he is not quite the same player when the Orioles are ready to contend, his presence will be invaluable.
The Baltimore Orioles need to make certain that they have respected locker room veterans as the youngsters reach the majors. Signing Trey Mancini to a long term extension would be a great start.