The Orioles began the season with objectives that extend past this season. Baltimore was not expected to compete, and the club still found itself in the “talent acquisition and development” phase of the rebuild. Everyone knew the O’s would be sellers at the trade deadline, it simply depended on if any other team would want any of their players.
Once the season began, plenty of Orioles had proven their worth. Several players on the offensive side of the ball exceeded expectations, but it was the arms that brought a return. That was the market, and the Orioles took advantage.