Background
The Baltimore Orioles, currently in the midst of a rebuilding process, have reportedly set their sights on acquiring left-handed pitcher Blake Snell from the Tampa Bay Rays. Snell, a former Cy Young Award winner, has been the subject of trade rumors for much of the offseason.
Snell’s Career
Selected by the Rays with the 52nd overall pick in the 2014 MLB Draft, Snell quickly ascended through the minor league system. He made his MLB debut in 2016 and has since established himself as one of the game’s most dominant pitchers.
In 2018, Snell won the American League Cy Young Award after posting a 21-5 record, a 1.89 ERA, and 221 strikeouts. He has been a key member of the Rays’ rotation since then, helping the team reach the World Series in 2020.
Possible Deal
According to reports, the Orioles are offering a package that includes several top prospects for Snell. The deal could potentially involve shortstop Gunnar Henderson, the organization’s top-rated prospect.
Benefits for Orioles
Acquiring Snell would provide the Orioles with a much-needed ace for their young rotation. His veteran presence and winning pedigree could help mentor the organization’s developing pitchers. Additionally, Snell’s left-handedness would balance out the Orioles’ rotation, which currently lacks a strong left-handed starter.
Benefits for Rays
The Rays, who are looking to shed salary, could benefit from the deal by acquiring young talent that could help them contend in the future. Henderson is a highly touted shortstop with the potential to be a star in the MLB.
Conclusion
The potential acquisition of Blake Snell would be a significant move for the Baltimore Orioles. It would provide them with a top-of-the-rotation starter and help accelerate their rebuilding process. The Rays, on the other hand, would benefit from the influx of young talent and the ability to reduce their salary commitments.
Whether or not a deal is reached remains to be seen, but the Orioles’ interest in Snell is a clear indication of their desire to compete in the near future.
Kind regards
Z. McDowell
