Orioles Could Move Two-Time All-Star in Major Trade Shakeup

Orioles Could Move Two-Time All-Star in Major Trade Shakeup

The Baltimore Orioles have endured a rough 2025 season, prompting their front office to shift focus toward rebuilding for 2026. At the trade deadline, they parted ways with nearly all players on expiring contracts—among them Cedric Mullins, Ryan O’Hearn, and Charlie Morton.

This signals a commitment to their young talent, but there’s a catch: none of those rising stars have been locked into long-term deals. That uncertainty could stir tension among cornerstone players like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman.

Is Adley Rutschman on the Trade Block?

Trading Rutschman, the former No. 1 overall pick from the 2019 draft, seems unthinkable at first glance. He quickly rose through the ranks and debuted in 2022, becoming the face of the franchise. Yet, Bleacher Report suggests a trade might be on the table—and the stats support the possibility.

As Kerry Miller notes, Rutschman’s early dominance has faded. Despite his initial impact, the Orioles haven’t secured him—or any of their young stars—with a long-term extension. With negotiations reportedly stalled, this offseason could be a turning point. If talks don’t progress, the team might opt to trade him and pave the way for top prospect Samuel Basallo, who’s tearing up Triple-A with an OPS near 1.000.

Performance Decline Raises Questions

Rutschman’s production has dipped since his breakout 2023 campaign. His batting average has dropped by 20 points, and most offensive metrics—home runs, doubles, slugging percentage, RBIs, and OPS+—have declined in both 2024 and 2025. While he remains a solid contributor (especially for a catcher with an OPS over .700), the regression is notable.

If the Orioles do make him available, expect a frenzy of interest across the league. Only a few teams—like the Dodgers, Mariners, and Brewers—might pass, given their current catching depth.