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The Baltimore Orioles recently promoted top catching prospect Samuel Basallo to the majors and quickly locked him up with a long-term extension.
While this is a major win for the franchise and its fans, it casts uncertainty over the future of Adley Rutschman.
With Basallo secured for nearly the next decade, Baltimore could explore trading Rutschman as early as this offseason.
FanSided’s Christopher Kline pointed to the Cincinnati Reds as a logical landing spot if the Orioles decide to move on.
He noted that Cincinnati is shaping up as a long-term contender in the NL Central, led by rising superstar Elly De La Cruz and a rotation anchored by young aces Hunter Greene and Andrew Abbott.
Adding a proven star like Rutschman would give the Reds one of baseball’s best catchers and elevate them into a serious division threat.
Adley Rutschman
With Rutschman under team control through 2027, his value only increases.
The Reds also have the prospect depth to pull off a deal.
Names like Rhett Lowder or Chase Petty could headline a package, while someone like Nick Lodolomight also be considered.
For the Orioles, trading Rutschman could bring back much-needed pitching help at the big-league level.
Ultimately, Baltimore isn’t under pressure to make this move—but if the right trade offer comes along, it may be too tempting to pass up.
pass up.
