The Baltimore Orioles made the postseason in 2024, but 2025 could end up being a different story. They are at risk of losing star players in free agency and could potentially lose them to division rivals.
The Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees both ended up losing the Juan Soto sweepstakes. While listing moves the Yankees need to make to replace Sotoi and get back to the World Series, FanSided’s Rucker Haringey urged the Yankees to “steal Anthony Santander away from Baltimore.”
“Cashman and his staff understand just how serious of a threat the Baltimore Orioles are in the AL East. That is not the only reason they should have interest in outfielder Anthony Santander, but it is a valuable, added bonus,” wrote Haringey. “Soto’s departure should permit Aaron Judge to move back to right field. That opens up center field for Jasson Dominguez. Left field is still open, unless the Yankees want to trust Trent Grisham to man a starting spot for a full season. That would not be a move befitting of a title contender.”
Santander is not Juan Soto at the plate and is not a Gold Glove-type outfielder. However, he is still a great offensive player. The Orioles would be losing a big piece of their team. He hit 44 home runs last season. He also had 102 RBIs. His batting average was just .235, but he brings serious power from the left side of the plate. 32 of his 44 home runs came as a lefty.
He should cost a fraction of what the New York Mets gave Soto. In 36 games at Yankee Stadium, he has hit nine home runs and has a .746 OPS. He would be coming back to Camden Yards often if he goes to the Yankees. He has a .801 OPS at home for the Orioles at Camden Yards. Seeing Santander in a Yankee uniform could be a huge blow to the Orioles organization and its fans.
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