Baltimore Orioles dipping toe into shortstop market

The Baltimore Orioles have proclaimed that their rebuilding process is over. They might be ready to prove that to be the case in free agency.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Orioles have been checking in on the top shortstops in free agency. Adding one of that group would send the message that they are back.

Baltimore Orioles looking to send message

It is fair to wonder if adding a shortstop would be the right move. Adding a shortstop would allow the Orioles to push Jorge Mateo into a utility role where he would be better suited. It would make a difference in terms of improving the lineup in the immediate, providing more depth to what could already be a dangerous offence.

But the Orioles need to balance the future against that move as well. Gunnar Henderson was a shortstop in the minors and could slide into that role once more at the major league level. The Orioles also have several infield prospects on the cusp of the majors, with Joey Ortiz and Coby Mayo potentially making their major league debuts next year.

Those prospects could make an impact in another way as well. The Orioles are known to be looking to add another piece to their rotation as well and could use those prospects to add another arm. The Marlins are looking to add pieces to a mediocre lineup and have pitchers to spare; a trade between the two teams could help both sides.

It all comes down to what the Orioles decide is the best course of action. Adding one of the top shortstops in free agency would allow the Orioles a lot more flexibility in making their moves going forward. And it would send a message to the rest of the roster that those rebuilding days are, indeed, over.

The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly looking at the top of the shortstop market. Adding one of those pieces would send quite the message.