Adley Rutschman trade speculation heats up after MLB insider leaks hint

There's a universal expectation that the Baltimore Orioles will be in the market for a starting pitcher this offseason. There is no shock factor when it comes to that realization, considering the need for rotation stability has existed for the Orioles since the start of the season. With the expectation being that the Orioles could return to contention next season, simply running it back with the strategy they had this season can't be an option.

The concern is that the Orioles won't be willing to spend top dollar this offseason to sign the starting pitchers at the top of the free-agent class. There's no Corbin Burnes available this time around, but Framber Valdez and Dylan Cease would look nice at the top of an Orioles' rotation in need of an ace. That would mean a level of aggressiveness Mike Elias' front office hasn't shown in recent seasons, and that could be why the team looks toward the trade market to address the need.

MLB insider teases Adley Rutschman deal that could address Orioles' biggest need

A move that could include Adley Rutschman being on the move. Since signing Samuel Basallo to an eight-year extension, rumors have run rampant that the Orioles will look to trade Rutschman this offseason. As one National League executive told Mark Feinsand, it wouldn't be a surprise if the Orioles trade Rutschman as a way to address their need in the rotation.

The rumored names that many expected to be on the move at the trade deadline--Edward Cabrera, Sandy Alcantara, Mitch Keller, MacKenzie Gore, and Joe Ryan--all remained with their respective teams. Chances are that one, if not all of those pitchers, will be available on the trade market this offseason. The Orioles may not be willing to trade their top prospects, but dangling Rutschman as a trade chip would likely be appealing enough for the Miami Marlins, Washington Nationals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Minnesota Twins to see if they can find common ground on a deal.

Spending money might be a question for the Orioles this offseason, but with Rutschman potentially available in trade talks, there is no reason why they can't be successful in addressing their biggest need.

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