A Look at 2025 Starting Pitchers: Baltimore Orioles

Zach Eflin (RHP) 

Zach Eflin proved to be a vital asset for the Orioles after joining the team at the trade deadline last season. Standing tall at 6’6″, the right-handed pitcher delivered an impressive performance, finishing with a record of 5-2 and a remarkable 2.60 ERA over 55.1 innings. Much of his success was bolstered by an exceptional Orioles defense. Eflin’s standout pitch, a sharp cutter, kept batters at bay, resulting in a mere .214 batting average against it. While it may be ambitious to expect another sub-3.00 ERA from him, his motivation in the final year of his contract suggests he is primed for another solid season.

Grayson Rodriguez (RHP)

Grayson Rodriguez is emerging as a potential ace for the Orioles in the near future. Last season, he made 20 starts and posted a respectable 3.86 ERA coupled with an impressive strikeout rate of 26.5%. However, concerns linger regarding his health, as he struggled with injuries last season, suffering two stints on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation and right lat discomfort. If he can maintain his fitness throughout the season, he possesses the skills to dominate. His changeup, regarded as one of the best in the league, was particularly effective, as evidenced by opponents managing to hit only .161 against it.

Charlie Morton (RHP)

Charlie Morton, a seasoned 41-year-old veteran, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Orioles after being signed during the offseason. With two World Series titles under his belt (first with the Astros in 2017 and then with the Braves in 2021), Morton is not only a reliable arm but also a mentor for younger pitchers. His durability is commendable, having tallied over 160 innings pitched in each of the past four seasons. Last year, he achieved a 4.19 ERA in 30 starts for the Braves, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Orioles, the central question remains: Does Morton have one more stellar season left in the tank?

Tomoyuki Sugano (RHP)

The Orioles have added the 35-year-old Japanese right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano to their roster with a lucrative one-year, $13 million deal. Known for his dominance as an ace with the Yomiuri Giants in Japan, Sugano is reputed for his exceptional command on the mound. With a fastball that hovers in the low 90s and a repertoire that includes six distinct pitches, he brings a diverse skill set to the Orioles rotation. His splitter is particularly notable, and he frequently utilizes sliders and cutters effectively. As he transitions to Major League Baseball, his ability to adapt quickly will be crucial to solidifying his role within the team.

Dean Kremer (RHP)

Dean Kremer displayed strong potential last year, making 24 starts and wrapping up the season with a solid 4.10 ERA across 129.2 innings. His late-season performance was particularly impressive, as he recorded a stellar 2.98 ERA over his last eight starts, indicating that he was hitting his stride when it mattered most. In 2022, he showcased his abilities further, posting a 3.23 ERA over 21 starts. At just 29 years old, there is still room for growth and development, suggesting that he could still evolve into the sub-4 ERA pitcher that the Orioles envision.

Albert Suarez (RHP)

Albert Suarez, a 35-year-old veteran, finds himself on the edges of the rotation as the season approaches. He will need to deliver a strong performance during spring training to secure his place in the starting lineup. Given his solid contributions to the Orioles last season, there is potential for him to make an impact, even if he starts the year in the bullpen as a swingman. His versatility and experience could prove invaluable as the Orioles navigate the ups and downs of the season.

Cade Povich (LHP) 

Cade Povich, a left-handed pitcher who previously ranked among the top-100 prospects, had a challenging time during the 2024 season, finishing with a 5.20 ERA in 79.2 innings pitched. However, there were moments of brilliance, such as when he dominated the White Sox in September, striking out 10 batters in 7.1 innings without giving up a single run. The key question moving forward is whether Povich can harness the lessons learned from a tough season to rebound and make significant strides in 2025. Fans should keep an eye on him as his career progresses.

Trevor Rogers (LHP) 

Trevor Rogers joined the Orioles at the trade deadline but struggled significantly, finishing the season with a disappointing 7.11 ERA in just four starts, striking out only 12 batters across 19 innings. After his rough patch, he found himself sent down to Triple-A. With a career ERA of 4.36, expectations are tempered. However, the Orioles remain hopeful that he can regain his form and provide valuable pitching depth during the long season ahead.

Chayce McDermott (RHP)

Chayce McDermott stands out as the Orioles’ top pitching prospect, known for his impressive strikeout abilities. Last season in Triple-A, he struck out an impressive 144 batters over 100 innings, showcasing his potential as a dominant pitcher. McDermott made his MLB debut in July, but injuries limited his opportunities for further appearances. As he is likely to begin the season in the minors, there is excitement about his future contributions when he returns to the major leagues.

Kyle Bradish (RHP)

The Orioles are optimistic about Kyle Bradish’s recovery from elbow surgery, with hopes that he can rejoin the team in the second half of the season, potentially strengthening their pitching arsenal down the stretch.

Kyler Wells (RHP)

Tyler Wells is on a hopeful path to return this season after undergoing an internal brace procedure. His recovery timeline remains uncertain, but the team eagerly anticipates his comeback, which could provide much-needed depth to the rotation.