Orioles could target former Cy Young as backup option for 2025

The Baltimore Orioles have had a spectacular 2024 season to date as they trail the New York Yankees by just 1 1/2 games and lead the Wild Card race.

However, they'll have some questions to answer in the offseason. They acquired Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers, which gave them a true ace for the starting rotation. But the veteran right-hander is set to enter free agency.

In the event that Burnes leaves, the Orioles could take a chance on injured Cleveland Guardians ace Shane Bieber, who will begin the 2025 season on the IL, but is projected to sign at a "reduced rate", per Jim Bowden.

Obviously, Bieber will not be back immediately, as he is recovering from Tommy John surgery. The Orioles will also have two additional arms, Tyler Wells and Kyle Bradish, trying to make their way back from the same surgery.

But if Burnes leaves, Bieber may be their next best option, even though he'll miss some time in 2025. Like Burnes, he is a former Cy Young Award winner and would bolster the Orioles rotation if signed.

The Orioles have proven their desire to win and field a competitive team for years to come, and if they lose Burnes, Bieber is the ideal option to pivot to if they want to remain a force in the American League.

It will be interesting to see how Bieber's market develops and if the Orioles will pivot to him in the event that they lose Burnes in free agency.

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