As we hit the third team in our preview, we come to a team with some incredibly high expectations, the Baltimore Orioles. The O’s come into the 2024 campaign after officially arriving last summer with a terrific season that culminated in an AL East title. Unfortunately, their hopes for a dream season fell short after they were swept by the eventual world champion Rangers. They have had a “slow” offseason as for a long time their biggest addition was veteran closer Craig Kimbrel, to cover for the loss of Felix Bautista. But in just a few short days they were purchased by a new and very wealthy ownership group, and then acquired ace pitcher Corbin Burnes. Let’s talk about their key’s success as they look to repeat atop a stacked AL East in 2024.

Keys to Success

1. Grayson takes the next step: While a lot of attention is right fully being paid to Corbin Burnes arrival and the return of John Means, I think young Grayson Rodriguez is the key to this pitching staff’s success. The former top draft pick has long been expected to anchor this staff, but so far, he has not taken the next step. This is a critical prove it year for “G-Rod,” and if he comes through, he could be set to become a fixture in this rotation for years to come.

2. Craig slams the door: The O’s have a critical void to fill this summer as they have to cover for the loss of star closer Felix Bautista who is out of the year due to an injury. Future Hall of Famer Craig Kimbrel will attempt to fill the void left by the big righty, as he comes off of a disappointing postseason that likely cost the Phillies the pennant. If the veteran can do the job the O’s will be just fine, but if he underwhelms it will bring Baltimore into a tighter race with the hunting Yankees.

3. Continued growth of young players: It’s no secret the Orioles have the best farm system in the sport. They are fully stocked with young talent that could be the face of their team for years to come. They managed to hang onto most of them following their deal with Milwaukee, and if they can develop these players the O’s will have in house stars for decades to come.

The Lineup

1. Gunnar Henderson 3B

2. Adley Rutschman C

3. Anthony Santander RF

4. Ryan O’Hearn 1B

5. Austin Hays LF

6. Cedric Mullins CF

7. Ryan Mountcastle DH

8. Jackson Holliday SS

9. Jordan Westburg 2B

The Staff

1. Corbin Burnes

2. Grayson Rodriguez

3. John Means

4. Dean Kremer

5. Cole Irvin

Closer: Craig Kimbrel

The Prediction

94 Wins and Wild Card Spot

While it’s hard to overstate the impact of adding Corbin Burnes to the Orioles team, I think a few factors could hold them back. I would keep an eye on Kyle Bradish who is nursing an injured UCL that will cause him to miss time. This injury could handcuff this team, along with a bullpen that I have some doubts about. I think they’re in for a fight with a Yankee team looking for a revenge tour, one that will ultimately send them to the wild card. Be on the lookout of Jackson Holliday, son of big leaguer Matt Holliday, to make an impact this year as “Orioles Magic” may be in the works.

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