MLB insider Mark Feinsand joins Ryan Ripken for a deep dive into the loaded AL East and the Baltimore Orioles’ offseason moves that position them as legitimate contenders. Feinsand calls the Orioles’ additions “smart and impactful,” spotlighting Pete Alonso as a veteran power bat and clubhouse leader who brings durability, heart, and Gold Glove-caliber defense at first base. He also praises Ryan Helsley as a high-leverage closer upgrade, Taylor Ward trade for outfield depth, and Kris Bubic for rotation insurance.
Big emphasis on the six-man rotation plan: a forward-thinking move to protect arms after losing Corbin Burnes, manage workload, and give young pitchers (like Grayson Rodriguez, Cade Povich) breathing room. Feinsand addresses early injuries (Jackson Holliday sidelined, Jordan Westburg uncertain) but sees the depth tested positively, with midseason bullpen trades likely if needed (relievers easier to acquire than starters).
He breaks down the division: Yankees’ quiet but solid offseason (Bellinger re-sign, Cole return), Blue Jays’ massive leap (Cease $200M deal, Gausman back), Red Sox rotation boost (Gray, Blanco) and prospects rising, Rays’ perennial resilience. Feinsand’s take: “Any team can win” this monster division—early spring trades rare, but volatility in bullpens and injuries will shape the race.
A must-watch for Orioles fans gearing up for spring training—insider analysis, balanced takes, and optimism for Baltimore’s 2026 push.
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SOURCE: Ryan Ripken Media