Cedric Mullins shared his honest thoughts on getting traded from the Orioles in 2025.
The Baltimore Orioles traded outfielder Cedric Mullins to the New York Mets during the 2025 MLB season. Mullins, who signed with the Tampa Bay Rays earlier this offseason, recently made an appearance on Foul Territory and discussed the trade.
"It hit pretty hard," Mullins said. "Just having to uplift your entire life, especially out in New York where things can get hectic... Definitely a lot of changes and adjustments that had to be made along with trying to perform at your best."
Mullins had previously spent his entire MLB career with the O's. He made his big league debut back in 2018 and later earned an All-Star selection in 2021. The '21 campaign also saw Mullins finish ninth in American League MVP voting after he hit 30 home runs, stole 30 bases and recorded an .878 OPS. Mullins took home a Silver Slugger award that season as well.
Mullins has not been the same player since, though. Overall, the Orioles endured a down '25 campaign which made them sellers at the trade deadline in July. Mullins, who was hitting just .229 at the time, was traded to the Mets. Things did not get much better in New York, as the veteran outfielder hit just .182.
Former Orioles Star Cedric Mullins Gets Fresh Start with Rays
Mullins is now back in the American League East after signing a one-year deal with the Rays. He should receive plenty of playing time with Tampa Bay. Mullins will likely hit in the middle of the lineup and play center field.
Tampa Bay's lineup is certainly not the best in baseball, but it features some talented players. Yandy Diaz and Junior Caminero will lead the way, while the ball club recently acquired Gavin Lux in a trade with the Cincinnati Reds.
Mullins' presence in the lineup will give opposing pitchers another proven veteran to worry about. It would not be surprising to see Mullins have a bounce back season in Tampa Bay. At 31 years old, Mullins is looking to have a big '26 campaign and potentially earn a multi-year contract next offseason.
His track record suggests he is more than capable of getting back on track.
As for the Orioles, Baltimore has had a busy offseason. The O's have brought in Pete Alonso, Taylor Ward and Shane Baz among other players. Baltimore could be a legitimate contender during the upcoming 2026 season.
Cedric Mullins will attempt to help his new team upset the Orioles and make a run in the AL East.