Bleacher Report fuels brutal Orioles trade chatter surrounding Adley Rutschman

The Baltimore Orioles weren't entertaining the idea of trading Adley Rutschman at the trade deadline, but a conversation around the idea got started. Injuries and ineffectiveness of Rutschman have been one of the reasons why the Orioles' 2025 season went off the rails, and it's hard to see a path where Baltimore returns to contention in 2026 unless he proves every current doubt about him wrong.

Just as they were at the deadline, the Orioles will be a curious team to watch this offseason, and it starts with Rutschman. Rutschman was at the center of the Orioles' core that was ready to take over the American League East, but like most of the roster, there has been some regression in his game over the last years.

In 2024, Rutschman posted a 102 wRC+ with 19 home runs in 638 plate appearances. Certainly respectable numbers from a starting catcher, but not quite the superstar production he had during the first two seasons of his career. This season, an oblique strain forced him to miss over a month, and his offensive production continues to have slipped, posting a wRC+ under 100.

Factoring in the fact that Samuel Basallo is now on the Major League roster, the idea of the Orioles trading Rutschman this offseason does make some sense. Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report was the latest to make the argument.

"This winter feels like the point of no return. After back-to-back seasons nowhere near as proficient as his first two, this is where they could try to buy low and get a big extension done at a price that's reasonable for them. And if they're still miles apart in those negotiations, they might as well just trade him now and clear the path for top prospect Samuel Basallo to become the primary catcher next season."

Adley Rutschman farewell suddenly feels real after Bleacher Report Orioles buzz

First and foremost, if the Orioles are planning on contending in 2026, it makes sense for Rutschman to be on their roster. Between first base and designated hitter, the Orioles can get creative with how they include both Basallo and Rutschman in their starting lineup. Rutschman is also under control through 2027, so the Orioles shouldn't feel rushed into moving their franchise face, especially since they would be selling low.

However, Basallo's inclusion in the 2026 plans could allow the Orioles to get creative. Rutschman could be a key trade piece if the Orioles look to add a controllable starting pitcher. Using Rutschman in a potential trade could make sense, considering Elias often avoids trading top prospects.

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