The Baltimore Orioles are facing a critical offseason with key free agents Corbin Burnes and Anthony Santander. While re-signing both players would be the ideal outcome, ESPN’s David Schoenfield suggests that it’s more likely the team will lose both, opting to seek cheaper replacements through trades or free agency. Losing both players, particularly Santander, would represent a significant setback for a team that has shown steady improvement in recent seasons. Schoenfield forecasts that Santander will sign a lucrative three-year, $69 million contract with the Houston Astros. The Astros, looking to bolster their offense and with limited outfield depth, would find Santander to be a solid addition, slotting him in left field and the middle of their lineup. If this happens, the Orioles will need to find a way to offset the loss, but this could be a tough blow for a team that has been trending upward.
The fit between Anthony Santander and the Houston Astros is indeed an ideal one. Santander would provide a significant offensive boost, slotting nicely into the middle of Houston’s lineup and solidifying their outfield. If the Astros can land him for under $25 million per year, it would be a great value for them given their current needs.
However, if the Orioles lose Santander on a three-year, $69 million deal, it would be a tough pill to swallow. The fact that the deal seems affordable—especially considering Santander’s potential for a hometown discount—should make it more painful for Baltimore.
For a team that has seen its fortunes rise in recent years, losing a key contributor like Santander on such a relatively modest contract would feel like a missed opportunity. The Orioles should absolutely be in a position to match that offer, and if they don’t, it could signal a step back in their overall trajectory.
