The Orioles have amassed many top prospects through their rebuild. But it’s time to move on from some as the Orioles become top contenders. After the Orioles blew up their roster at the 2018 trade deadline, it was clear that they were focused on the future. Well, the future is now, and the minor league system has produced so many stars there is not enough playing time for everyone. In the infield, MVP candidate Gunnar Henderson and All-Star candidate Jordan Westburg will be joined by number-one prospect Jackson Holliday shortly. Then, there is more opportunity for time in the outfield, but many options exist. All these various options mean that one or two bad games can get you demoted or benched. Overall, there is limited opportunity for many other talented players. Let’s look at two who deserve a fair chance that may not come with the Orioles.
Two Prospects The Orioles Should Move On From
An Overshadowed Top 25 Prospect
With the second pick in the 2020 MLB draft, the Orioles took Heston Kjerstad. A talented player out of Arkansas, Kjerstad looked primed to quickly become a key contributor for the Orioles. However, a heart issue held Kjerstad out of baseball until 2022, but when he began his career, he delivered. Before his second professional season ended, Kjerstad made his major league debut and ended up on the Orioles 2023 playoff roster. Although Kjerstad didn’t make the Orioles 2024 opening day roster, the top prospect got the call-up in late April. However, the young student has yet to deliver at the higher level. In a small sample size of 44 career at-bats, Kjerstad has an average of .205 and a .650 OPS. Also, at best, Kjerstad provides average defense, so when the bat isn’t working, the Orioles have other options they can go to.
Why Trade Kjerstad?
A trade for Kjerstad could be good for both sides. For the Orioles, it could free up their outfield logjam. Also, the return for Kjerstad could net the Orioles an elite reliever they desperately need. A change of scenery and a realistic path to consistent playing time could help Kjerstad blossom into stardom. Although it may seem difficult to part with a highly valued prospect, it may be the best course of action for the Orioles to take for them to take the next step.
The Overshadowed Infielder
Connor Norby, the second-round pick for the Orioles in 2021, has been a minor league stud, possessing a career Batting Average of .285. Also, he has a career OPS of .861 and has hit 30 home runs since the start of the 2023 season, a lot for a primary second baseman. His numbers have been nothing short of outstanding. Despite being in Triple-A since 2022, Norby has never been called to the major league squad. That is unfortunate because Norby possesses much talent and deserves a chance. Yet, the Orioles have chosen not to waste his service time and keep him down in the minors. Also, the Orioles have Henderson and Westberg producing like All-Stars already, with Holliday and other top prospects, Coby Mayo, very soon to follow. Norby seems to have nothing left to prove in Triple-A but has no spot on the Orioles.
Trading Norby is a Must
With all of the Orioles’ talent, trading Norby at the 2024 trade deadline must happen. He is a very talented player with a lot of potential. Another Triple-A Championship would be cool for the Orioles organization, but a World Series ring is even better. Norby can help net a position of need for the Orioles, who require pitching depth. Although he could become a star, the Orioles have multiple perennial All-Stars already and need to part with their number 6 prospect.
Last Thoughts
The Orioles must be active at the trade deadline for a successful postseason run. There is no reason for the Orioles to be focused on their farm system. The system has blossomed, and now they have many prospects to trade for MLB-ready guys. Kjerstad and Norby hold a lot of value and will not earn consistent playing time with the Orioles until at least 2025. They could each, in separate deals or together, help net the Orioles guys that can come in and help them potentially win the World Series 2024.
Main Photo Credits: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
