With Opening Day fast approaching, it might seem like the Baltimore Orioles and St. Louis Cardinals have wrapped up their major trade moves. However, the Cardinals may not be done just yet. All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado continues to be linked to the New York Yankees and Houston Astros, while veteran starters Sonny Gray, Miles Mikolas, and Steven Matz could be on the move in the coming months.
For the Orioles, now is an ideal time to explore a trade for Gray, especially if the Cardinals are looking to accelerate their rebuild. Gray, who posted a 13-9 record with a 3.84 ERA in 28 starts last season, is entering the second year of a three-year, $75 million contract that includes a team option for 2027.
A potential trade that could benefit both teams is:
Baltimore Orioles receive:
- Sonny Gray, P
St. Louis Cardinals receive:
- Dylan Beavers, OF
- Brandon Young, P
- Max Wagner, 3B
- Peter Van Loon, P
While this may seem like a hefty package for the Cardinals, it’s important to remember they are on the verge of a rebuild. Meanwhile, the Orioles are serious contenders in an AL East that includes the Yankees, who are currently the betting favorites to win the American League (+300), with Baltimore close behind at +600, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Beavers, the 33rd overall pick in 2022, is the centerpiece of this deal. He hit .242 with 15 home runs, 54 RBI, and 31 stolen bases last season while showcasing defensive versatility across all three outfield positions at Triple-A. He’s nearly MLB-ready and could make an immediate impact for St. Louis.
Young, another Triple-A prospect, recorded a 3.44 ERA in 20 games (18 starts) at Norfolk last season. While he’s unlikely to replace Gray in the rotation right away, the 26-year-old has the potential to earn a starting role down the line.
Wagner, a second-round pick in 2022, is included as a potential bounce-back candidate after struggling in Double-A last year. Meanwhile, Van Loon impressed with a 2.66 ERA in 12 games (11 starts) at Double-A in his first full season as a starter. The 26-year-old is currently in Orioles camp as a non-roster invitee.
While parting with four prospects for a 35-year-old pitcher carries risk, it could be a worthwhile gamble for Baltimore as they push for their first World Series title in over four decades.