MLB expert’s bold Orioles offseason prediction feels like it’s a year late

The Baltimore Orioles are talking a big game. On the heels of being one of baseball's most disappointing teams last season, the Orioles believe they can right the ship as soon as 2026. The hiring of new manager Craig Albernaz has the impression of being a step in that direction, but Orioles fans have already been down a road of false promises.

Last offseason was the perfect time for the Orioles to flex their financial muscle. They were knocking on the door of being the definition of success in the American League East, and yet, the front office's actions didn't match the moment. The Orioles had no plan to replace Corbin Burnes, and their answer to replacing Anthony Santander was Tyler O'Neill.

Those aren't serious moves from a team expecting to be among the American League powerhouses.

With the GM Meetings taking place in Las Vegas this week, early rumors are beginning to emerge about what the offseason may hold. USA Today's Bob Nightengale's offseason preview suggests the Orioles plan to make up for last winter's mistake and be aggressive in free agency.

"They can’t afford to miss the postseason again or GM Mike Elias’ job is on the line. They have to bring in a front-line starter," Nightengale wrote.

Orioles' free agency prediction is just another indictment of Mike Elias and his failed approach

To Nightengale's first point of Elias' job being on the line if the Orioles miss the postseason, that doesn't feel entirely accurate. Elias was promoted to being the Orioles' president of baseball operations, and the team has put its plans of hiring a general manager to the side. Elias survived the firing of Brandon Hyde and was allowed to orchestrate the sell-off at the deadline. Don't get us wrong, he should have been fired yesterday, but his seat, in reality, may not be that hot.

As for the Orioles having to bring in a front-line starting pitcher; duh. While Elias has been extended the benefit of the doubt that he doesn't deserve, even he may not be able to save his job if the Orioles come away from this offseason without a new addition at the top of their rotation.