Baltimore Orioles Received 'Most Valuable' Player at MLB Trade Deadline

The Baltimore Orioles may have pulled of the most valuable trade of this year's MLB trade deadline.

Kade Kistner | Aug 18, 2024

Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

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Baltimore Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles know how to build a roster. Whether it's improving at the margins or making a splashy free agent signing or trade for a superstar, this new era for the Orioles is not only promising but exciting!

At this year's MLB trade deadline, Baltimore pursued and ultimately acquired starting pitcher Zach Eflin from the Tampa Bay Rays. The Orioles gave up quite the haul for Eflin, a trio a prospects that included their no.10 and no.17 prospects.

But it appears Baltimore won out in the trade, at least for their purposes which is the goal of winning a World Series.

Since joining the team at the deadline, Eflin 4-0 with a 2.13 ERA and made franchise history by becoming the first pitcher with at least 25 strikeouts and two or fewer walks in his first four starts with the team according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale.

According to Nightengale, no player acquired at the trade deadline has been more valuable for their team than Eflin has for the Orioles.

With Eflin's arrival, Baltimore has a three headed dragon at the top of their rotation and are positioned well for a deep postseason run, barring any type of significant injury.

The new ownership group has been instrumental in in allowing general manager Mike Elias and the rest of his front office to pursue the players on the market, free agent or trade.

It is also Elias' aggressiveness that has put Baltimore in a phenomenal position not just in the division but in all of baseball to pursue a World Series this season and beyond.

Eflin's acquisition is just one more example of the Orioles doing things the right way with success and the future in mind.

Published Aug 18, 2024

KADE KISTNER

Kade Kistner—a driving force in sports journalism. Holding the helm as publisher for Sports Illustrated's acclaimed feature, Rodeo Daily, Kade is a seasoned alumnus of Tulane University. His academic journey culminated in a 2017 graduation, marked by a degree in Latin American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Following his academic pursuits, Kade embarked on a distinctive path. He answered the call of duty, joining the ranks of the United States Navy. Guided by his aspirations, he honed his skills at Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida, ultimately achieving the esteemed position of Naval Aviator. His base of operations was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida—a testament to his dedication and service. Amidst his academic achievements and military commitment, Kade found himself drawn to the world of sports coverage. His byline graced the pages of prestigious platforms such as USA Today, SB Nation, and the revered Sports Illustrated. Within these domains, he tackled the intricate worlds of MLB and NFL, unfurling their stories with a discerning eye. From capturing the essence of the New Orleans Saints to unraveling the narratives of the Texas Rangers, Kade's journalistic prowess shone through. His writing translated the raw data of the sports world into compelling narratives that resonated with readers far and wide. With the turning of seasons, Kade embraced new horizons. He introduced Inside the Phillies, Inside the Astros, and Inside the Cubs—an endeavor that unveiled the inner workings of these iconic teams. Kade's knack for storytelling transformed team dynamics and player stories into engaging content for avid fans. Engage with Kade on Twitter, where his handle, @KadeKistner, serves as an open invitation to join the conversation. For inquiries or correspondence, he can be reached at kwkistner@gmail.com. Kade Kistner's journey through the multifaceted world of sports and journalism continues to unfold, leaving an indelible mark along the way.