Ranking Carmen Mlodzinski Landing Spots If Pirates Trade Pitcher

The Pittsburgh Pirates have a lot of work to do this offseason, following a competitive 2026 season for the team.

While the Pirates didn't make the playoffs, the young team did show a lot of fight, leading to a major offseason upcoming. Pittsburgh's front office has some tough decisions to make, including with a few roster choices.

One name that has been rumored to be a possible trade candidate from the Pirates is right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski. Mlodzinski started this past season in the rotation for the Pirates, but he was moved to the bullpen when other guys returned from injury.

The right-hander was very productive for the Pirates this year, posting a 3.95 ERA over 37 appearances (12 starts), throwing 123 innings. Mlodzinski is arbitration-eligible through the 2029 season, which could allow Pittsburgh to sell high on his services.

If the Pirates do make him available, there could be a few teams interested in his services this offseason. Here are three teams that would make a lot of sense for Mlodzinski if he gets moved this winter:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

When most people think about the Dodgers pitching staff, they don't believe that Los Angeles needs another arm for the rotation. But given all the injuries that the team has seen over the years, they simply need someone to eat innings next season.

Mlodzinski has being a future member of the Dodgers written all over him, and the Pirates could take advantage of this. Los Angeles loves to pick up players like this, turning them into potential All-Star talents.

2. Houston Astros

The Astros were able to make the playoffs, but the pitching let them down this year, with the offense going off. Adding someone like Mlodzinski could help out, and he would be able to work a lot of innings.

Houston has to make some moves this offseason, and the Pirates could take advantage of the team's need. Mlodzinski makes sense for this Astros staff, with the right-hander filling a major need for Houston.

3. Baltimore Orioles

After spending heavily in free agency last offseason, the Orioles didn't make the playoffs, which could push the front office to make more moves. Baltimore needs more help in the starting rotation, and Mlodzinski could give them a reliable arm for the middle part of the staff.

The Orioles need to start building out the rotation, and with Mlodzinski's desire to be a starter, this would work well. Mlodzinski would get a larger role, while giving the Orioles something that they are truly lacking.