Can the Brewers Compete After Trading Corbin Burnes to O’s?
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
In a significant move that caught the attention of MLB fans and analysts alike, the Milwaukee Brewers traded pitcher Corbin Burnes to the Baltimore Orioles earlier this month. This transaction underscored the Brewers’ strategy for the future and the Orioles’ willingness to strengthen their pitching lineup at a considerable cost.
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Despite his impressive performance and a dominant start in the playoffs last season, Burnes was not seen as a long-term component of the Brewers’ roster. The speculation around Burnes’ future intensified after he openly expressed his anticipation for free agency and changing representation to big-time baseball power broker Scott Boras, signaling his intent to explore the market at the end of 2024.
In acquiring Burnes, the Orioles have surrendered significant assets, including left-handed pitcher DL Hall, who is expected to compete for a starting rotation spot, and Joey Ortiz, a promising infielder with the potential to become the team’s future shortstop. Additionally, the Brewers received a compensation pick, further enhancing their ability to rebuild and restructure.
While the Brewers will undoubtedly feel the absence of Burnes’ consistency and skill on the mound, this trade allows them to focus on prospects and the development of their pitching staff. Although he is not expected to pitch this season, Brandon Woodruff should provide a veteran locker-room presence and a cornerstone for the 2025 pitching staff. Milwaukee’s rotation of ace Freddy Peralta, Wade Miley, and Colin Rea aims to remain competitive despite Burnes’ departure.
This strategic move comes shortly after the Brewers signed slugger Rhys Hoskins, indicating a potential push for immediate success, only to follow up with the trade of one of their top pitchers. The timing of these decisions highlights the Brewers’ complex strategy of balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term planning.
Milwaukee Brewers Futures Odds at FanDuel
- World Series Winner: +8500 (9th longest odds)
- National League Winner: +4000 (5th longest odds)
- NL Central Winner: +550 (2nd longest odds)
- 77.5 Regular Season Wins: Over (-115) | Under (-105)
- Make Playoffs: Yes (+300) No (-430)
The trade of Corbin Burnes to the Orioles is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of MLB team strategies, focusing on the delicate balance between maintaining a competitive team and preparing for future success. As both teams move forward, the impact of this trade will be closely watched, with the Orioles hoping Burnes continues his impressive performance and the Brewers looking to their new acquisitions and draft picks to shape the future of their franchise.
