Orioles miss opportunity to add impact bullpen arm after Cubs’ latest trade

Even with the return of star closer Felix Bautista, upgrading the bullpen ahead of the 2025 season should be a top priority for the Orioles. This is especially true given the Orioles' baffling decision to to decline Danny Coulombe's option for 2025.

For the first time in a few years, the Orioles' bullpen was not a great strength in 2024. Last off-season's big free agent addition, Craig Kimbrel, struggled so much the Orioles designated him for assignment in September. Cionel Perez saw his ERA jump from 3.54 in 2023 to 4.53 in 2024, and he was clearly less effective. Yennier Cano's ERA also went up a full run, from 2.11 to 3.15. And deadline acquisitions Seranthony Dominguez and Gregory Soto struggled at times, despite finishing the season strong.

Orioles fans had to stomach way too many innings from mediocre relievers last season, such as Burch Smith, Dillon Tate, and Matt Bowman. Indeed, the Orioles have already been linked to big name free-agent relievers such as Clay Holmes this off-season.

Orioles miss out on top reliever in Guardians - Cubs trade

That is why it was a bit disheartening to see the Chicago Cubs - and not the Orioles - acquire righty Eli Morgan from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for their 21st ranked prospect, Alfonsin Rosario. (For comparison's sake, the Orioles 21st ranked prospect is Leandro Arias, a 19-year-old infielder who isn't expected to debut until 2026.)

It is unclear if the Guardians made it known that Morgan was available, or if the Orioles showed any interest. But they should have. In 32 games this season, Morgan was 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA, allowing only a .197 batting average.

In 2023, Morgan was 5-2 with a higher 4.01 ERA, but he struck out 75 batters in 67.1 innings. He is under team control until 2028. Though not a hard thrower (his fastball averages about 92 miles per hour), he is in the top tier in hard hit percentage, barrel percentage, chase rate, and average exit velocity, according to Baseball Savant. In 2024, batters hit only .176 off his fastball and .188 off his changeup, while his slider was his main put-away pitch for strikeouts.

Ultimately, Eli Morgan is not a stud reliever who the Orioles should be kicking themselves for not acquiring. However, as a cheap, controllable arm who flourished in one of the American League's best bullpens last season, Morgan would have represented a solid addition to an Orioles' bullpen needing upgrades. Especially since the price seemed to be right.