Why Orioles aren't a 'clean fit' for $115 million Astros All-Star originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.If the Baltimore Orioles decide to buy at this year's trade deadline, making additions to the lineup may be the priority. With just two home runs and a .668 OPS, first baseman Pete Alonso is off to a slow start.
However, his production in recent seasons shows that his struggles shouldn't last much longer. Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer listed the Orioles as one of the clubs that could target a three-time All-Star and MVP candidate from the Houston Astros, but the fit might not work perfectly based on Baltimore's roster construction.
"With the Houston Astros spiraling toward the end of their dynasty, it's fair to wonder if they'll open up to offers for their most valuable trade asset: Yordan Alvarez," Rymer wrote Wednesday. Alvarez would not be a rental for the Orioles, as he's owed $26.8 million per year through 2028. He leads the Majors with 10 home runs and 24 RBIs, carrying a 1.203 OPS through 25 games.
MORE: Even the New York Times is mocking the New York Mets"This offense just hasn't taken off the way the Orioles hoped, and Alvarez would super-charge it in theory," Rymer added. "But with Samuel Basallo getting everyday at-bats in the DH spot, there isn't a clean fit for Alvarez in the lineup." Alvarez can also handle left field duties, but the AL East club acquired Taylor Ward in a trade during the offseason, and the Orioles would probably prefer to keep him off his feet more often than not to protect his health.
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