The preseason acquisition of Corbin Burnes significantly impacted the Baltimore Orioles’ season. However, it came at the cost of 25-year-old Joey Ortiz, who has become a standout player with the Milwaukee Brewers. Ortiz is hitting .281/.381/.472 with an .853 OPS, 6 home runs, and 27 RBIs.
Brewers’ starting pitcher Bryse Wilson criticized the Orioles for the trade after Ortiz hit a home run to lead his team over the Cincinnati Reds. “I think the Orioles messed up, I’m not gonna lie to you,” Wilson told reporters. “Obviously they get Corbin, but that’s a generational player right there. He hits, he plays elite defense. It’s awesome to have him behind us.”
At the time of the trade, Ortiz was ranked as the 63rd best prospect in MLB. In return, the Orioles received Cy Young winner Burnes, who is having another stellar season in 2024 with an 8-2 record and a 2.14 ERA.
However, a major factor in the trade is Burnes’ pending free agency. The Orioles risk losing the 29-year-old, while the Brewers will have Ortiz under team control for years. Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report predicted Burnes could earn as much as $288 million over eight years on his next deal, comparing him to Gerrit Cole, who signed for nine years and $324 million.
Burnes himself has indicated he plans to test the free-agent market, stating on “Foul Territory” that it would take an exceptional offer to keep him from exploring his options.
Despite the risks, the Orioles view the trade as a win-win. Burnes is highly respected both on and off the field. Orioles manager Brandon Hyde praised Burnes after a June 16 win over the Phillies, highlighting his professionalism and preparation. Burnes pitched six innings with seven strikeouts against a strong Phillies lineup, marking his 10th consecutive quality start, just two short of the franchise record set by Jim Palmer in 1975.
Teammate Colton Cowser emphasized Burnes’ reliability, noting that the team feels confident they can win any game with Burnes on the mound.
