Passan shares why Baltimore is among the teams winning the 2025-26 MLB offseason.
The Baltimore Orioles had a rough 2025 campaign, finishing with a 75-87 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2022.
After firing manager Brandon Hyde in May when the team sat at 15-28, the front office went to work in the offseason to reshape the roster.
Now, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan, Baltimore is among the biggest winners of free agency heading into 2026.
Passan Praises Orioles' Aggressive Approach
In his latest column published on Tuesday, Passan broke down which teams have improved the most during the offseason and put the Orioles at the top of the list.
He pointed to the different ways president of baseball operations Mike Elias attacked the roster's weaknesses.
Passan noted that Baltimore's moves "significantly upgraded a roster in sore need of an overhaul," adding that the franchise is "aiming to be the second consecutive American League East team to go from worst to first."
The acquisitions came in nearly every form, from big free agent signings to major trades to bullpen help.
The headliner was first baseman Pete Alonso, who signed a five-year, $155 million deal after hitting .272 with 38 home runs and 126 RBI for the New York Mets in 2025.
The Orioles also swung a trade with Tampa Bay for right-hander Shane Baz, brought in closer Ryan Helsley on a two-year, $28 million contract, re-signed Zach Eflin for $10 million, and acquired outfielder Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels.
Passan described the projected Baltimore lineup as potentially "the best lineup in baseball," citing the combination of Gunnar Henderson, Alonso, Jordan Westburg, Ward, Adley Rutschman, Jackson Holliday, and others.
He called the group "a wrecking crew" that new manager Craig Albernaz can build around.
Areas Still to Address
Despite all the progress, Passan acknowledged that Baltimore "still lacks a clear No. 1 starter" and remains connected to free agents like Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez.
The Orioles are reportedly pursuing additional pitching to round out their rotation, which could push them even higher among contenders.
Henderson, who hit .274 with 17 home runs and 30 stolen bases in 2025, has already expressed his approval of the roster changes and seems ready to lead the charge in 2026.
With a stacked lineup and a revamped bullpen, Baltimore is generating World Series buzz for the first time in years.
The Orioles' offseason work proves they are serious about bouncing back after a disappointing season, and Elias has positioned the team to compete in the tough AL East once again.