Securing the Premier Relief Pitcher in MLB
The Baltimore Orioles’ bullpen performs adequately with a 3.80 ERA, ranking 13th in MLB. Relievers like Craig Kimbrel, Danny Coulombe, Jacob Webb, and Yennier Cano have maintained sub-3.00 ERAs over at least 25 innings pitched this season.
Kimbrel has effectively stepped in as the closer for the injured Felix Bautista, securing 23 saves in 27 attempts with a stellar 2.10 ERA and a 38.5% strikeout rate. As the season progresses, Kimbrel continues to excel, proving reliable as the Orioles' closer.
However, enhancing the bullpen with an elite relief pitcher could be transformative, especially for the postseason. Enter Mason Miller from the Oakland Athletics, arguably the best reliever available.
Trade: Acquire Mason Miller from the Oakland Athletics
In a move reminiscent of the 2016 trade by the Cleveland Indians for Andrew Miller, the Orioles aim to bolster their bullpen similarly. Despite already having a solid closer, adding a high-caliber arm like Miller, who boasts a 2.39 ERA and an MLB-leading 45.6% strikeout rate this season, could be a game-changer in high-stakes situations.
Miller would provide immediate impact in high-leverage scenarios and has team control until 2030, pairing well with Bautista for a formidable long-term bullpen duo.
The Return: LHP Cade Povich, OF Enrique Bradfield Jr., OF Dylan Beavers, and IF Connor Norby
Povich has shown potential with a 3.18 ERA in Triple-A, though he faced challenges in the majors. This trade would not impact the Orioles' rotation deeply, especially with the acquisition of Bassitt. Bradfield Jr., a first-round pick and one of the top 100 prospects, brings speed and defensive prowess to the center field, fitting well with the Athletics' needs.
Norby and Beavers, among the top ten Orioles prospects, offer immediate and future value. Norby could immediately join the Athletics' major league roster, enhancing their infield.
This strategic move allows the Orioles to maintain their top prospects, such as Jackson Holliday, Samuel Basallo, and Coby Mayo, while still executing a significant trade. Including potential trade pieces from other deals, like Roby from the Mullins trade, could further facilitate this blockbuster.
This deal exemplifies the Orioles' unique position to make a significant impact at the trade deadline, setting them up for both immediate and long-term success.
