Orioles Seek Turnaround Amid Strategic Changes and Draft Hopes

Orioles Seek Turnaround Amid Strategic Changes and Draft Hopes

The Baltimore Orioles experienced a shift in momentum as they prepared for a doubleheader against the New York Mets on Thursday, July 10, 2025, after inclement weather postponed their initial matchup. This rescheduled game will start at 5:05 p.m. ET, with broadcasts available on SNY and MASN for local viewers.

In a significant off-field development, the Orioles traded right-handed reliever Bryan Baker to their division rivals, the Tampa Bay Rays, in exchange for the 37th overall pick in the upcoming MLB amateur draft. This move indicates a potential shift in the Orioles’ strategy as they prepare to navigate the trade deadline on July 31. General Manager Mike Elias hinted at this new direction, acknowledging the team’s position at the bottom of the AL East standings, 12.5 games behind leaders Toronto.

Elias referenced the Detroit Tigers’ surprising turnaround last season as a potential model for the Orioles, stating, “This is a team that is moving in the right direction.” Since the hiring of interim manager Tony Mansolino, the Orioles have shown improvement, attaining a 21-14 record after a rocky start that saw the dismissal of former manager Brandon Hyde.

Baker, who posted a respectable 3.52 ERA with 49 strikeouts this season, was an essential piece of the Orioles’ bullpen. Elias expressed confidence that they made a wise choice by trading Baker as a way to bolster their future prospects through a higher draft pick. The Orioles now hold four of the first 37 and seven of the first 93 draft selections, positioning the franchise for what Elias described as “a much bigger opportunity ahead of us.”

In a move to immediately address their roster needs, the Orioles also selected the contract of catcher David Bañuelos from Triple-A Norfolk, further emphasizing their active approach in reshaping the team.

As the Orioles aim for rejuvenation through strategic trades and an impactful draft, there’s a sense of optimism among fans. The team’s performance under Mansolino and the anticipation of key players returning from injury, including potential starting pitchers, provide a hopeful outlook for the remainder of the season.

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