Orioles trade proposal swaps prospects for projected $130 million ace

The Baltimore Orioles were swept in the Wild Card Series by the Kansas City Royals. They may look to add another starting pitcher this offseason, regardless of whether Corbin Burnes leaves in free agency or not.

While listing realistic trades that could happen before next season, Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly suggested that the Orioles could trade for Chicago White Sox ace Garrett Crochet.

"Even if Burnes is back, the Orioles need more pitching to be a World Series contender," wrote Kelly. "Zach Eflin is under contract for one more season, but he has a lengthy injury history. Grayson Rodriguez was on the injured list to finish the season. Kyle Bradish had Tommy John surgery in June, so he's unlikely to be a factor in 2025."

Crochet is under club control for two more years before he hits free agency. He is projected by Spotrac to earn a six-year, $130 million deal in free agency -- though he'll have time to notably improve his stock. The Orioles have prospect capital to trade as many of their top prospects are position players. Kelly proposed that the team use prospect capital to acquire Crochet.

"That opens up General Manager Mike Elias to use some of the surplus position talent to strike a trade with the White Sox for Garrett Crochet," wrote Kelly.

Crochet entered the big leagues as a reliever but excelled in his first year as a starter. He made 32 starts with a 3.58 ERA. He was named an All-Star for the first year in his career.

Despite his willingness to work on an extension, the White Sox intend to trade him, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale .

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