Baltimore Orioles' Biggest Goal in 2024 Hinges on New Ace

The Baltimore Orioles' biggest goal for the 2024 season has a heavy focus on ace Corbin Burnes.

The Baltimore Orioles arguably made the biggest splash in the American League this offseason when they traded for Corbin Burnes. After finishing top eight in Cy Young voting for the past four seasons and winning the award in 2021, it's safe to say the Orioles received one of the best pitchers in baseball.

Burnes, 29 years old, hopes to put Baltimore in an even better position to win after winning 101 games last season.

For this front office and roster, winning a playoff series is a must this year. Sure, they're young, but they have more than enough talent to get the job done.

Championship windows are also much shorter than many believe they're going to be. 

The addition of Burnes made this window stronger, which is all the front office can do.

Now, it's time for the players to perform.

Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com released his one goal for every team article, pinpointing on Burnes as the main goal this season.

According to Castrovince, the biggest goal for the Orioles in 2024 is maximizing the Corbin Burnes era. Burnes could return on a new deal for the next few years, but as of now, he's a rental. 

While there could be talks behind the scenes of him landing an extension when the seasons are over or sometime soon, there's pressure because of that. Even when Burnes does sign that deal, Baltimore has to win during that few-year window.

It's uncertain if he plans to sign a deal to stay with the franchise. However, there's one easy way to do that and that's by winning.

If the Orioles can win games, they should feel confident that Burnes will return. For now, maximizing this season is their top goal.