The Orioles received a first-hand look at how injuries can decimate a pitching staff last season. Corbin Burnes anchored the rotation, but nearly every other pitcher spent some time on the IL. Now, with Burnes set to secure a king’s ransom in free agency, the Orioles need to bolster their top five.
Baltimore should still attempt to bring Burnes back, and early reports suggest Mike Elias is willing to play ball, but Burnes will have the ultimate say on his destination. The 30-year-old lived up to the lofty expectations last season, but a projected $200 million contract would not come without risk.