The Baltimore Orioles’ 2025 season has been a major disappointment, despite their promising performances in the previous two years. With over half the season behind them, the Orioles find themselves in last place, on pace for 90 losses. This situation has led to speculation about potential trades, particularly involving their star catcher, Adley Rutschman. This article will explore the pros and cons of trading Rutschman before the July 31 trade deadline.
The Case for Trading Rutschman
Multiple Years of Control Remaining
One of the primary reasons to consider trading Rutschman is his remaining years of team control. Rutschman entered the 2025 season with three years of MLB service time, meaning he is still in his arbitration years and will not be eligible for free agency until after the 2027 season. This provides any acquiring team with a long-term asset, making him a valuable trade piece.
Samuel Basallo’s Bat is Ready
The Orioles have a promising replacement in Samuel Basallo, one of the top overall prospects in baseball. Ranked as the No. 9 overall prospect by CBS Sports, Basallo has shown impressive hitting skills with an OPS of .920 and 16 home runs in 57 games at Triple-A Norfolk. His bat is ready for the major leagues, providing a strong argument for trading Rutschman.
A Light Star Power Trade Deadline
This year’s trade deadline may not feature many big names, especially among hitters. With few standout players available, Rutschman could be the biggest name on the market. This scarcity of star players could give the Orioles significant leverage in trade negotiations.
The Case Against Trading Rutschman
Rutschman’s On-Field Value is at an All-Time Low
Rutschman’s performance this season has been below expectations. He is currently hitting .227/.319/.372 with an OPS+ of 98, a significant decline from his previous seasons. His defensive value has also dropped since his rookie campaign. Trading him now could be seen as “selling low,” as his xWOBA suggests he has been quite unlucky at the plate this season.
Basallo’s Glove May Not Be Ready
While Basallo’s hitting skills are impressive, his defensive skills as a catcher are still developing. His framing and blocking need improvement, and there are concerns about whether he can handle the responsibilities of a major league catcher at just 20 years old. The Orioles may not be comfortable relying on him for their pitching staff.
The AL Wild-Card Race is Inviting
Despite their current struggles, the Orioles are only 7½ games out of the final AL wild-card spot. The American League is weaker overall in 2025, making the wild-card race more accessible. A potential rebound for Rutschman at the plate could help the Orioles make a late-season push and salvage their season.
FAQ
Q: Why is Adley Rutschman considered a valuable trade piece?
A: Adley Rutschman is considered a valuable trade piece because he has multiple years of team control remaining, making him a long-term asset for any acquiring team.
Q: Who is Samuel Basallo and why is he important?
A: Samuel Basallo is one of the top overall prospects in baseball, ranked No. 9 by CBS Sports. He has shown impressive hitting skills at Triple-A Norfolk, making him a potential replacement for Rutschman if he is traded.
Q: What is the current state of the Orioles’ season?
A: The Orioles are currently in last place in the American League East, on pace for 90 losses. Their performance has been a major disappointment compared to their previous two seasons.
Q: What is the significance of the AL wild-card race?
A: The American League is weaker overall in 2025, making the wild-card race more accessible. The Orioles are only 7½ games out of the final wild-card spot, providing hope for a late-season push.
Q: What are the potential risks of trading Rutschman?
A: The potential risks include trading Rutschman while his on-field value is at an all-time low and relying on Basallo, whose defensive skills may not be ready for the major leagues.
Conclusion
The decision to trade Adley Rutschman is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. While his remaining years of team control and the potential for a significant trade return are compelling reasons to consider a deal, his current on-field struggles and the readiness of his potential replacement, Samuel Basallo, must also be taken into account. The Orioles’ position in the AL wild-card race further complicates the decision. Ultimately, the Orioles’ front office will need to weigh these factors carefully to determine the best course of action for the team’s future.