Why Orioles could trade 4.99 ERA starter despite desire to avoid a rebuild

Orioles could trade a starting pitcher with a 4.99 ERA despite a stated desire to avoid rebuilding again, an approach that depends on the team’s August 3 deadline outlook. Baltimore, which went 39-45 through the first part of 2026 after a disappointing 2025 season, could turn into sellers if results do not improve. MLB.com’s Thomas Harrigan said the Orioles likely want to keep their core, but pending free agents may become trade options. A key candidate is 28-year-old left-hander Trevor Rogers, who has a 4.99 ERA in 15 starts in 2026 after posting a 1.81 ERA in 18 starts in 2025. Rogers is a free agent after 2026, making him more likely to be moved if the Orioles fall out of contention.