Orioles Target Top Free Agents to Boost 2026 Season Roster
The Baltimore Orioles are actively pursuing several top free agents this offseason to enhance their roster for the upcoming 2026 season. Recently, the Orioles faced a setback when Dylan Cease, a right-handed pitcher, signed a seven-year, $210 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, a key rival in the American League East. Despite this loss, the Orioles remain focused on adding significant talent, both in pitching and hitting.
While the pitching market still holds valuable options, including players like Framber Valdez and Michael King, the Orioles are equally determined to strengthen their batting lineup. They have already taken a step in this direction by acquiring Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for prospect Grayson Rodriguez. Ward’s impressive performance in the 2025 season, where he recorded 36 home runs, significantly outpaced any of the Orioles’ players, highlighting the impact he could make.
Focus on Power Hitters
This offseason features several premier power hitters available as unrestricted free agents, and Mike Elias, the Orioles’ president of baseball operations, has made it clear that securing at least one top slugger is a priority. According to a recent report by Jon Heyman, an MLB insider for the New York Post, the Orioles are keenly interested in former Philadelphia Phillies star Kyle Schwarber. Schwarber, who could serve as the designated hitter, presents additional versatility should the Orioles consider trading Ryan Mountcastle. There is also anticipation that prospect Samuel Basallo may see time at first base next season.
In the 2025 season, Schwarber had an impressive performance, hitting .240 with a .928 OPS, along with 56 home runs and 132 RBIs. His accomplishments earned him the title of runner-up for the 2025 NL MVP Award. The addition of Schwarber to the roster, alongside Ward, would collectively boost the Orioles by adding 90 home runs from the previous season, marking a significant enhancement to their offensive capabilities.
Exploring Additional Options
In addition to Schwarber, Heyman mentioned that the Orioles have also “checked in” on Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, as well as Framber Valdez. Securing a player like Schwarber, coupled with one of the mentioned pitchers, would indicate a highly successful offseason for Elias and the Orioles’ management.
Despite the promising developments, the organization understands that numerous challenges lie ahead to turn their offseason ambitions into reality. With several strategies in play and targets set, the Orioles are poised to make impactful decisions that could reshape their prospects for the 2026 season. The coming weeks will be critical as the team navigates the free agency landscape to build a competitive roster.
