Orioles Reportedly Near Trade Deadline Seller Mode Amid Playoff Elimination

The Baltimore Orioles, currently struggling with a 41-50 record and low playoff odds, appear poised to shift into seller mode ahead of the MLB trade deadline, aiming for a strategic reset rather than a full rebuild. After trading relief pitcher Bryan Baker and showing signs of a fire sale, the team is expected to shop veterans with expiring contracts, including bullpen arms like Andrew Kittredge, Seranthony Dominguez, and Gregory Soto, while keeping key players such as Felix Bautista off-limits. The Orioles' challenges are compounded by a lack of starting pitching and a farm system ranked near the bottom of MLB, which has prompted front office moves to acquire draft picks and prospects for future competitiveness. Despite this, franchise star infielder Gunnar Henderson has expressed a desire for the team to be buyers at the deadline, reflecting internal conflict between pushing for a playoff run and rebuilding. Orioles executive Mike Elias acknowledged the trade of Baker as a step toward selling but emphasized that the timing was influenced by draft considerations rather than a full-scale sell-off. Teams like the New York Mets and Yankees could be potential trade partners, seeking reinforcements in pitching and outfield positions as Baltimore looks to capitalize on its available assets.