The Baltimore Orioles acquired right-hander Shane Baz from the Tampa Bay Rays for catcher Caden Bodine, outfielder Slater de Brun, right-hander Michael Forret, outfielder Austin Overn and a 2026 Competitive Balance Round A selection. The deal represents Baltimore's biggest move since acquiring Corbin Burnes after the 2023 season.

Baz comes to Baltimore with three years of team control remaining and could serve as the Orioles' No. 1 starter over that span. The 26-year-old has made 55 consecutive starts over two years after recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Baz averaged 97 mph on his four-seamer in 2025 with riding life, primarily working at the top of the zone. He features a plus curveball, average cutter, and recently developed a kick-change that projects as an above-average pitch with improved command.

The right-hander's biggest issue in 2025 was his home ballpark, as he allowed 18 of his 26 home runs at Steinbrenner Field. He also surrendered six home runs on just 82 sliders thrown all season, suggesting pitch mix adjustments could significantly improve his results. Baz had a 3.86 ERA in 15 away starts compared to 5.90 at home in 2025.

Baz is expected to make approximately $3 million for 2026 after he goes through the arbitration process.

De Brun headlines the return package as Baltimore's fourth selection in the 2025 draft at pick No. 37. The 5-foot-10 center fielder received a first-round bonus of $4 million and features an advanced feel to hit with solid instincts on both sides of the ball.

Bodine was the No. 30 pick in July from Coastal Carolina. He offers solid-average defense with a plus arm and exceptional contact ability, posting strikeout rates under 10 percent during his sophomore and junior seasons.

The Orioles' top three starters now consist of Baz, Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers. Baltimore's rotation has the upside to rank among baseball's best if all three remain healthy and Rogers sustains his recent adjustments.

Dean Kremer provides quality innings as a No. 4 starter, better than typical fourth-rotation options. The Orioles have multiple candidates to fill the fifth starter role and handle spot starts throughout the season.