Orioles predicted to deal Colton Cowser Coby Mayo plus prospects in blockbuster trade for $400 million Cy Young winner

Orioles predicted to deal Colton Cowser Coby Mayo plus prospects in blockbuster trade for $400 million Cy Young winner image

The Baltimore Orioles are exploring a trade for Tarik Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 season that saw them miss the playoffs entirely.

It’s a steep fall for a franchise that seemed poised to dominate the AL East just two years ago. The O’s lost Corbin Burnes to free agency this winter, leaving a massive hole at the top of their rotation that young arms like Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish can’t quite fill on their own.

Enter Skubal, who’s emerged as the most coveted pitcher on the trade market.

Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly sees Baltimore as a logical landing spot for the Detroit Tigers ace, writing that acquiring Skubal would send a clear message about the organization’s commitment to getting back on track.

“For a team that seemed destined to run the sport this decade just a couple years ago, though, what would be a bigger statement of trying to get back on track than acquiring Skubal to pair with Trevor Rogers at the top of its rotation?”

The cost would be significant. Kelly suggests the Tigers would demand a package built around some of Baltimore’s top prospects, including outfielders Ike Irish and Enrique Bradfield Jr., plus major league talent like Colton Cowser or Coby Mayo.

That’s a hefty price, but it’s the reality of pursuing a 28-year-old lefthander coming off a Cy Young season. Skubal posted a 2.39 ERA with 228 strikeouts in 192 innings last year, establishing himself as one of baseball’s elite starters.

The Orioles have the positional depth to absorb losing a piece like Cowser or Mayo. What they don’t have is pitching depth, which makes Skubal’s potential impact even more valuable.

There’s also the matter of an extension. Skubal has two years of team control remaining, but any acquiring team would likely want to lock him up long-term. Recent reports suggest there’s a significant gap between what Detroit’s offering and what Skubal’s camp is seeking, which could push the Tigers toward a trade.

Time isn’t on Baltimore’s side here. Half the league has shown interest in Skubal, and the bidding war is only going to intensify as spring training approaches.

The way I see it, the Orioles need to move quickly if they’re serious about this. They’ve got the prospect capital to make a competitive offer, but they can’t afford to get into a prolonged negotiation while other contenders circle.

It would be a franchise-altering move – exactly the kind of bold stroke this organization needs to reclaim its place atop the AL East.

Luke Bennett avatar
Luke Bennett
9 hours ago