The Baltimore Orioles went 91-71 and secured the top American League Wild Card spot. However, their season came to a screeching halt when they were swept in the Wild Card Series by the Kansas City Royals.
Baltimore still has a bright future, though, and they should be back in contention in 2025.
They have a decision to make on a key piece to their bullpen. Right-hander Seranthony Dominguez has an $8 million club option for 2025.
Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report expects them to exercise this option and bring the veteran reliever back.
"The Orioles acquired Seranthony Dominguez in a deal with the Phillies prior to the trade deadline, sending outfielder Austin Hays to Philadelphia. Both players had run their courses with their respective teams, so it made sense as a swap," Kelly wrote.
"Dominguez probably wasn't a big enough addition for general manager Mike Elias at the deadline for a needy bullpen, and his 3.97 ERA over 25 games doesn't stand out.
However, he was 10-for-11 in save opportunities and would be a strong set-up option for star closer Felix Bautista, who will be returning after missing all of 2024 recovering from Tommy John surgery."
The 29-year-old's club option for 2025 is worth $8 million. During the regular season, he posted a 4.45 ERA in his 63 appearances between the Phillies and Orioles.
However, he did pitch mostly well in Baltimore and has been a solid back-end option in the bullpen, so there is some value there. He posted a 3.78 ERA last year with Philadelphia.
The Orioles could go in either direction here. Keeping him around would allow them to retain a high-leverage reliever with plenty of upside.
But if they were to let him go, they may not be losing too much. They'd save $8 million and possibly have additional funds to try and re-sign Corbin Burnes or go and sign another top-level starting pitcher.
It will be interesting to see what the Orioles decide to do.
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