Discover how the Baltimore Orioles secured All-Star pitcher Corbin Burnes in a blockbuster trade, enhancing their roster for the upcoming season.
In a surprising turn of events, the Baltimore Orioles have made a splash in the baseball world by acquiring All-Star pitcher Corbin Burnes in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. This move comes just a day after the announcement of the team being put up for sale by its current owners.
The Orioles have sent infielder Joey Ortiz, pitcher D.L. Hall, and the No. 34 pick in the upcoming 2024 MLB Draft to the Brewers in exchange for Burnes. The trade not only bolsters the Orioles’ pitching roster but also signifies a strategic move as Burnes enters the final season under team control.
Corbin Burnes, a 29-year-old ace, has been a consistent All-Star for three consecutive seasons and clinched the NL Cy Young Award in 2021. In the 2022 season, Burnes showcased his prowess with a 10-8 record, a 3.39 ERA in 32 starts, and leading the league with an impressive 1.069 WHIP. Furthermore, he topped the charts with 243 strikeouts, making him a coveted asset for any team.
The Brewers’ decision to trade Burnes stemmed from his impending free agency in 2025 and their apparent stance not to re-sign him. By making the trade now, Milwaukee ensures they receive valuable assets in return for the talented pitcher.
Joey Ortiz, a 2019 fourth-round pick by the Orioles, made his MLB debut last season. The 25-year-old middle infielder, though batting .212 in 15 games, holds promise for the Brewers’ infield.
D.L. Hall, a 2017 first-round pick, brings his left-handed pitching skills to the Brewers. Despite starting as a pitcher in the minors, Hall took on a reliever role during his two big-league stints with the Orioles. In 18 appearances last season, Hall recorded a 3-0 record with a 3.26 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP.
The Orioles, having clinched the AL East championship, are aiming for a repeat performance with the addition of Burnes. The 2021 NL Cy Young Award winner will undoubtedly bring the front-end pitching prowess needed for a competitive edge.
It’s worth noting that the Orioles were able to include the No. 34 pick in the 2024 MLB Draft as part of the trade, thanks to it being a compensatory pick. These picks are the only draft selections eligible for trade in MLB.
In summary, the Orioles’ acquisition of Corbin Burnes marks a significant move in their pursuit of maintaining a strong presence in the competitive landscape of baseball. As they gear up for the upcoming season, the addition of Burnes adds a formidable force to their pitching rotation and enhances their chances of remaining a force to be reckoned with in the AL East.
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