The Baltimore Orioles are unlikely to re-sign ace this offseason, as his expected $250 million price tag is far beyond what the team is willing to offer.
As an alternative, the Orioles may explore other pitching options, with Bleacher Report’s predicting a reunion with Jack Flaherty on a four-year, $88 million deal.
“There were times in 2024 when Jack Flaherty pitched like an ace, and other times when he did not,” Rymer noted. “He had a 2.95 ERA when the Dodgers acquired him from the Tigers in July and delivered two strong playoff outings, including a seven-inning shutout in Game 1 of the NLCS.
“Even if teams don’t see Flaherty as a true No. 1, he has appealing traits, including elite strikeout-to-walk and whiff rates this season. Without draft pick compensation attached, Flaherty might secure a nine-figure deal, or at least come close.”
The Orioles originally acquired Flaherty at the 2023 trade deadline, but his brief stint in Baltimore was underwhelming, as he allowed 26 earned runs over 34 2/3 innings. However, his bounce-back performance in 2024, combined with his affordability, could make him a sensible target for the Orioles, especially if they miss out on Burnes.
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