The Orioles made a surprise splash by signing the reigning Central League MVP out of Japan. Tomoyuki Sugano possesses an impressive resumé, but it’s difficult to project how Sugano will perform during his first year in Major League Baseball. It’s easy to see the upside, but there are no guarantees.
Corbin Burnes remains on the open market, but the Orioles appear hesitant to spend the cash required to get a deal done. Sugano should fit into Baltimore’s rotation, but there’s still room for improvement. Several free agents have already found homes, so Elias could turn to the trade market again this winter.