Three months down, three more to go for the 2023 regular season. In the American League East, things continued to trend through the month of June as they did for the first two months.
The Tampa Bay Rays continue to be the class of the division and the American League. The Atlanta Braves are setting the pace for both leagues, but it’s very likely that the AL East will get multiple teams in October baseball.
As the calendar turns to July, this is going to be a big month for all five teams. With that said, here is one bold prediction for each team in the AL East.
Bold prediction: Baltimore Orioles make pre-trade deadline moves to go all-in
We knew that the Orioles were going to be a dangerous team this season and it started out that way. They have continued their impressive season and there is no reason why they should not be buyers at the trade deadline and make an early move to add.
Adding a starting pitcher to their staff is one way they could go to set themselves up for a playoff run. Shane Bieber is an option that a lot of teams are going to be in on and it’s just whether or not the Cleveland Guardians are going to move the right-hander. He would be an addition as he has playoff experience and is a top-of-the-rotation arm that can be the difference in a short series.
If they can’t get Bieber, then Lucas Giolito of the Chicago White Sox is another pitcher that will be highly sought after. It’s clear that Chicago is once again going to miss out on the playoffs and they should be looking to hit the reset button for a couple of seasons. Like Bieber, Giolito has plenty of big-game experience and would be a big addition to any staff.
For the first time in a long time, the Orioles are going to be trade deadline buyers, and making an early move (maybe a pre-All-Star Break move?) is an avenue they should go.