It was bound to happen. The Orioles’ outstanding minor league system has taken a hit. Granted, much of the depth is now playing in the Major Leagues. As the team has improved, they are picking in the back of the first round of late instead of the top. Plus, they haven’t developed the pipeline from Latin America that the Dodgers, Brewers, and Padres have.
Of course, one of the best prospects in the game is Sam Basallo, a catcher that the Orioles signed out of the DR in 2021 for a $1.3 million bonus. So, that one worked out quite well. He turned 20 in August, and like many of the young Orioles before him, he will be pushing for an MLB assignment before he’s legally able to drink. Coby Mayo still has minor-league eligibility, and while he didn’t hit in his MLB debut, there is big-boy power in the bat. Enrique Bradfield and Dylan Beavers are underrated from my viewpoint and could provide some help in Baltimore next season or in 2026.
As it has been in the Mike Elias regime, the pitching is not as strong as their hitters. Their goal will be to trade some of their positional depth when they need pitching at the MLB Level. Hopefully, they will do a better job than they did at the 2024 season deadline.
While the system is down from recent norms, nobody should sing the blues for the Orioles, as there is plenty of talent.
Prospect Snapshot
- Top Prospect: Sam Basallo
- Biggest Mover: Frederick Bencosme
- Biggest Disappointment: Jackson Holliday (I couldn’t resist)
- Emerging Prospect: Felix Amparo
