MLB Power Rankings: 1 biggest trade deadline need for every team over .500
By Tim Boyle
6) MLB Power Rankings: Baltimore Orioles need a legitimate ace
Years of losing have finally ended for the Baltimore Orioles. They’re one of the best teams in baseball and they’re doing it mostly with the offense. The pitching hasn’t been atrocious, though. Felix Bautista is one of the best closers in the game. Kyle Gibson has shown he has plenty left to offer. It’ll be tough to put too much faith in this starting staff without snagging at least one legitimate ace at the trade deadline.
The Orioles certainly have the trade chips to make it happen. Whether it’s a rental or someone with some team control, the Orioles need to make a move. It shouldn’t have to cost them the entire farm. After all, many of those best pieces are already in the majors. The Orioles can’t let this opportunity pass them by.
5) MLB Power Rankings: Pittsburgh Pirates need an even more legitimate ace than whatever the Baltimore Orioles get
The Pittsburgh Pirates could actually use quite a lot. The lineup is nothing special nor is the pitching staff. How they’ve managed to get this far with a winning record is a bit of a surprise. While they could definitely use a big bat in the lineup, there isn’t anywhere other than catcher to really make a big change. Jason Delay has handled the spot well and been a much better offensive weapon than Austin Hedges.
An even more legitimate ace for their pitching staff is what they could use more than anything else. Mitch Keller can’t do it all on his own. Rich Hill’s experience can only carry them so far. If the Pirates are going to win the NL Central, a big upgrade to the starting staff is an absolute must.