Orioles should target this breakout AL Central arm that could elevate their rotation

While you might not know it based on their latest trades and rumors, the Baltimore Orioles actually need starting pitching this offseason. It seems, however, that the Orioles have been connected to anything but during the early-going of the 2025-26 offseason.

The O's pulled off a stunning trade by acquiring outfielder Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels, and have recently been linked to another outfield slugger, Kyle Tucker. It's time, however, for Baltimore's front office to get serious and begin pursuing some frontline rotation help.

One name that's gone unnoticed so far this offseason is Kansas City Royals starter Kris Bubic. The southpaw went to the All-Star Game this past season, and it's recently been revealed that he's received some trade interest this offseason. While the Orioles have not been mentioned as a potential suitor, Mike Elias would do well to at least kick the tires and see what it would take to pry the lefty away from Kansas City.

Orioles should target Royals starter Kris Bubic to bolster their rotation

Bubic, a former first-round pick of the Royals back in 2018, had his best year in the big leagues last season. The left-hander went 8-7 in 20 starts with a 2.55 ERA and struck out 116 batters while posting a 1.178 WHIP. Bubic has operated as a swingman at times throughout his career, appearing out of the bullpen 37 times over his first six Major League seasons.

Bubic would be a short-term solution, much like Corbin Burnes, as he's only under team control through next season. According to MLB Trade Rumors, the 28-year-old is expected to earn $6 million through arbitration — a very affordable number for a team like Baltimore, which may be looking for multiple top-of-the-rotation starters this offseason. Baltimore could conceivably trade for an arm like Bubic and also land a pitcher like Dylan Cease or Michael King in free agency.

The O's will need to replace Grayson Rodriguez in the rotation while also adding a frontline starter to pair alongside Trevor Rogers. Adding Bubic could help plug at least one of those holes and provide Baltimore with plenty of financial flexibility to make other additions. The Royals are said to be targeting offense and pitching depth as part of a return, and given the Orioles' farm system, they undoubtedly have the means to make this type of trade work.