2 internal candidates that could help the Orioles rotation in the second half

The Orioles own the second-best record in the American League and have a three-game lead in the American League East over the New York Yankees. However, the team is in need of some pitching reinforcements. They are most desperate for help in the starting rotation. Pitchers Tyler Wells, Kyle Bradish, and John Means are all out for the season after each underwent Tommy John surgery.

One possible scenario for the Orioles at the trade deadline would be if they were to hold pat rather than make any moves, something that former manager Buck Showalter suggested might be an option for them going forward.

That would mean they wouldn't be able to get immediate help from the outside on the pitching front, but they do have a few options internally that could help them. Here are two internal options that could plug holes in the rotation in the second half as they are needed.

Chayce McDermott might be the guy the Orioles need down the stretch

McDermott was acquired from the Houston Astros in the 2022 trade for Trey Mancini. He had a strong 2023 season and even earned Pitcher of the Year honors in the Orioles' system. It's been a bit of a struggle for him at Triple-A Norfolk this season. He's 2-5 with a 4.00 ERA in 18 appearances, 17 of which have been starts.

MLB Pipeline lists him as the No. 7 prospect in the organization, and he is expected to arrive in the Major Leagues at some point this year. He has a mid-90s fastball that can touch 97 mph. He also possesses a sweeper, a curveball, and a changeup and is said to be able to maintain his velocity deep into games. He could potentially be of use to the Orioles in the second half if he gets his shot.

Lefty Cade Povich could provide the Orioles with quality innings

Povich has already tasted the Major Leagues and is currently with the big-league club. The 24-year-old has struggled out of the gates, as he is 1-3 with an ERA of 6.51, but he does possess a ton of swing-and-miss. He racked up nine or more strikeouts in five of his starts in 2023. Povich came to the Orioles in 2022 in the Jorge Lopez deal.

Povich has a fastball that can touch 96 mph and he also possesses a sweeper and a changeup that help him neutralize right-handed hitters. With a little more seasoning, Povich could certainly help the Orioles rotation in the second half of the season and give them a chance to hold onto their lead in the AL East over the Yankees.