Orioles could pull off surprise blockbuster for Cy Young winner, per insider

They may still be in first place in the American League East, but the Baltimore Orioles are going through a brutal rough patch.

Since July 10, the Orioles are 4-10. Their vaunted young lineup, which has been on fire most of the season, is scuffling. But the biggest issue right now is the starting pitching.

With injuries to Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells, the O's have barely been able to field a full starting rotation. They addressed that need by acquiring Zach Eflin from the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday, but that may just be the start.

According to insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Orioles could be in the market for another starting pitcher on an expiring contract. Rosenthal specified Blake Snell of the San Francisco Giants as one of the arms who could be headed to Baltimore before Tuesday.

"After acquiring Zach Eflin, who is under contract for next season at $18 million, the Orioles are not opposed to acquiring a rental starter," Rosenthal said. "Teams view Snell as likely to opt out after this season, as long as he is healthy."

Snell, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, is a highly intriguing trade chip. He signed a two-year, $62 million contract with the Giants this season, but can trigger the opt-out in hopes of landing a longer deal.

If the price wasn't going to be high to acquire Snell, it certainly went up on Saturday. Snell punched out 15 Colorado Rockies in six shutout innings, setting a new career-high for strikeouts in a single game.

Despite his overall numbers not looking great for the season (5.10 ERA), Snell has been tremendous in four starts since returning from the injured list. He would be an asset to any contending club, but especially to the Orioles.

If Baltimore wants to end their current scuffle and re-establish themselves as top dogs in the American League, bringing in another Cy Young winner would be an excellent place to start. But if Snell is indeed available, there is bound to be competition for his services.

More MLB: Why Orioles everyday starter is "most likely" to be traded, per insider