Could Orioles re-sign Burnes and Santander? | MAILBAG

Question: Do you see any scenario where the Orioles re-sign both Corbin Burnes and Anthony Santander? If not, who is most likely going to still be with the team in 2025? From: Adam

Answer: Adam, I can’t imagine that the Orioles are going to be able to re-sign Burnes and Santander. Signing one of them would be hard enough, and I think both would be cost-prohibitive.

I think there will be a new starting pitcher from another organization and a right-handed hitting outfielder acquired to replace them. I think a few new relievers will be on the team, too.

The guess here is that most of the team that ended 2024 will be with the Orioles for spring training in 2025 with perhaps five or six new players mixed in.

Question:  Do you think the organization’s hitting philosophy of “Do damage” type swinging to more of a situational approach is being adjusted with the removal of the hitting coaches? Or do you think they are simply getting new voices for their philosophy? I personally would like to see better situational awareness on offense. Curious about your take on that. From: Jeff Baker

Answer: Jeff, I know Mike Elias said he would look closely at the 2024 season, and he’s made changes so far, but I don’t know if the hitting philosophy will change.

I would like to see some more small ball mixed in, an occasional sacrifice and more bunting for hits. They do use the hit-and-run on occasion, and I like that.

The Orioles have some excellent hitters, and they finished high in most offensive categories, but I think they needed a different outlook in those games against Kansas City. A more varied approach might have helped.

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.