The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant move, acquiring former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. This trade involved the Orioles giving up infielder Joey Ortiz, left-hander DL Hall, and the 34th pick in the 2024 draft. It’s a deal that has caught the attention of the baseball world.
While the Milwaukee Brewers had been entertaining trade offers for Burnes during the offseason, many believed they might hold onto the 2021 National League Cy Young winner as spring training approached. However, the Orioles, who won 101 games last season, saw an opportunity to bolster their rotation and didn’t hesitate to make the move.
Corbin Burnes, a 29-year-old set to become a free agent after the 2024 season, had an impressive track record with the Brewers. He posted a 10-8 record with a 3.39 ERA and 200 strikeouts in 193⅔ innings last year, helping the Brewers secure the NL Central title. Burnes had consistently performed at a high level, leading the NL in strikeouts in 2021 and maintaining an impressive ERA.
Now, Burnes joins a Baltimore rotation that already includes talented pitchers like Kyle Bradish and Grayson Rodriguez, making the Orioles a formidable force on the mound.
The decision to trade Burnes was not an easy one for the Brewers, as he had publicly stated that this would be his last year with the team. However, it allows Milwaukee to shed Burnes’ $15.6 million salary and shape their roster for the future.
Joey Ortiz, one of the players included in the trade, brings versatility to the Brewers’ infield and could potentially fill a significant role this season. With an impressive track record in the minors, Ortiz has shown promise as a hitter.
DL Hall, another key piece of the trade, has the potential to make an impact on the Brewers’ rotation. Despite his experience as a reliever, Hall has excelled as a starter in the minor leagues and has showcased his strikeout ability.
Milwaukee is optimistic about the future, with talented prospects and a commitment to maintaining a competitive team. The Brewers have a history of making strategic moves, and this trade is another example of their long-term vision.
While this trade marks a significant change for both teams, it underscores the dynamic nature of baseball and the constant pursuit of excellence and success in the MLB.