Baltimore Orioles Trade Rumors: Eflin, Sugano, Mullins, Mountcastle, and O’Hearn on the Block?

By Oliver Wiener June 07, 2025 10:29

The Baltimore Orioles have emerged as one of the most intriguing teams to watch as the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, with several key players potentially on the block. After a sluggish start and the firing of manager Brandon Hyde, the Orioles have caught fire, winning six straight games and nine of their last eleven, sparking speculation about their trade strategy moving forward.

Trade Candidates: Eflin, Sugano, Mullins, Mountcastle, and O’Hearn

General Manager Mike Elias faces a complex decision: whether to push for a playoff spot or begin reshaping the roster for 2026. Several players with expiring contracts are drawing interest from contenders looking for short-term boosts. Among these are pitchers Zach Eflin and Tomoyuki Sugano, both free agents after the season, who have shown flashes of elite talent. Eflin and Sugano’s potential availability makes them attractive trade chips for teams needing pitching depth.

Cedric Mullins, the speedy and defensively skilled center fielder, is also a prime trade candidate. Mullins has drawn attention from teams seeking speed and defense in the outfield. Despite some injury setbacks, his combination of speed and hitting ability makes him a valuable asset. Mullins’s value is underscored by his role as one of the Orioles’ key outfielders and the fact that he will become a free agent at season’s end.

First baseman Ryan Mountcastle, currently on the injured list but with a year of team control remaining, is another intriguing candidate. Mountcastle’s power hitting and remaining contractual control could entice teams looking for a middle-of-the-order bat. Moving Mountcastle could also clear the way for top prospect Coby Mayo, who was recently recalled and is poised to make an impact.

Ryan O’Hearn has arguably been the Orioles’ best player this season and might be their most valuable trade asset. O’Hearn has elevated his game, slashing .340/.428/.558 with nine home runs and 21 RBIs in 45 games, showcasing improved plate discipline and power. His strong start has made him a hot commodity for teams seeking offensive reinforcement at the deadline.

Orioles’ Strategic Dilemma

The Orioles’ front office must weigh the benefits of trading veterans for prospects or retaining them to compete in 2025. While a full turnaround by July 31 seems unlikely, the team’s recent surge has complicated the narrative. If Baltimore edges closer to a .500 record or a Wild Card spot, Elias might seek to acquire pitching to make a late push. However, the more probable scenario is that the Orioles will deal some of these expiring contracts to build for the future.

Notably, some core players like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Jackson Holliday are considered untouchable, preserving the team’s young nucleus. The challenge lies in balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability.

As the Orioles navigate the next eight weeks, the MLB trade deadline looms as a pivotal moment. With Zach Eflin, Tomoyuki Sugano, Cedric Mullins, Ryan Mountcastle, and Ryan O’Hearn all potentially available, Baltimore could be one of the most active teams in the market. Their decisions will not only shape the remainder of the 2025 season but also set the foundation for the team's future trajectory.

Baltimore’s story this season is one of resilience and potential transformation, making them a captivating team to watch as the trade deadline approaches