3 players Baltimore Orioles should trade at deadline

For the first time in years, the future is starting to look bright for the Baltimore Orioles.

Yes, they are in last place in the AL East. And yes, they are in what may be the most difficult division in the majors. Nonetheless, their .455 winning percentage entering Friday would be their best mark since 2017. With several young players establishing themselves at the major league level, and promising arms on the cusp of making their debut, there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel.

Three players for Baltimore Orioles to trade

That does not mean that the Orioles should stay pat at the trade deadline. In fact, this could be an important trade deadline as they look towards the future. While they are likely to move any impending free agents that they can, their return could make a significant difference on the 2023 roster.

The Baltimore Orioles are a lot closer to contending than people may think, but it is still time to sell. Let’s look at three possible trade candidates.

Trey Mancini

In a perfect world, the Baltimore Orioles would extend Trey Mancini.

He is one of the more popular players on the Orioles, a Stage 3 colon cancer survivor who has become an inspiration for the younger players. The problem is that extension talks have not begun and he is expected to decline his side of a mutual option for 2023. This makes Mancini the most likely Oriole to be traded unless something drastic changes.

Mancini will be an intriguing trade target. He has produced a .280/.356/.421 batting line in his 295 plate appearances, hitting seven homers and 14 doubles. While he has been the Orioles’ primary designated hitter, he has also spent time at first and both corner outfield spots.

That versatility, along with his solid hitting this year, will make him an attractive target. The Orioles will also have more suitors because of that versatility especially considering that he could slot into several different areas. An unexpected bidding war is entirely possible.

Trey Mancini may be the most likely member of the Baltimore Orioles to leave at the deadline. The Rays, Brewers, and Padres could be suitors.

Jordan Lyles

Jordan Lyles was another player that the Baltimore Orioles signed to a one year deal hoping that they could catch lightning in a bottle.

To a degree, they may have. Lyles has not exactly been great, having posted a 4.94 ERA and a 1.459 WHiP in his 85.2 innings, striking out 70 batters with 28 walks. His 80 ERA+ is nothing to write home about. However, based on his low standards, he has been almost useful.

Lyles’ biggest asset is his ability to take the ball every fifth day and eat innings. He has pitched at least five innings in 13 of his 15 outings this year, a somewhat impressive accomplishment in an era where pitchers do not pitch deep into games. That ability to throw at least five innings of occasionally decent ball does have some value.

Much like Rougned Odor before him, Lyles will not cost much. There are going to be better options available at the trade deadline. Nonetheless, he will take the ball every fifth day and provide at least five innings. Add in his low cost, and Lyles could end up changing uniforms.

The Baltimore Orioles could have a market for Jordan Lyles. Teams in need of rotation depth, such as the Brewers, Mets, and Dodgers could be potential options.