Just last season, it appeared the Baltimore Orioles were poised to dominate the AL East for the better part of the next decade. With a promising young core featuring Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday, Colton Cowser, and others, the team seemed set for a long run of success.
However, this year has brought new challenges, particularly in the pitching department, leading to a disappointing 13-20 start and leaving the Orioles five games behind the division leader.
Given this rough beginning and little indication that the pitching will improve, Baltimore might become a seller at the trade deadline.
One name already being mentioned in trade rumors is veteran center fielder Cedric Mullins. Now in his eighth season with the Orioles and set to hit free agency after this year, Mullins is an appealing trade candidate.
Although his performance has dipped slightly in recent days, he’s still putting up strong numbers, batting .255 with seven home runs, 21 RBIs, and an .870 OPS over 110 at-bats. If he maintains that level of production, he’s likely to draw interest by mid-July.
The Cincinnati Reds could be a potential landing spot, especially after losing left fielder Tyler Callahan to injury. Cincinnati currently ranks 12th in Wins Above Average across all three outfield positions, and Mullins could provide a meaningful upgrade.
Since he’s a rental player, the Orioles may not demand a hefty return — perhaps just one lower-tier prospect. Reds prospects Ethan O’Donnell (ranked No. 18) and Adolfo Sanchez (No. 22), both outfielders, are potential trade chips that could interest Baltimore if it chooses to move Mullins.1
