The Baltimore Orioles might trade Cedric Mullins, their starting center fielder, to a contender before the trade deadline. Here’s why:
The Orioles have an abundance of outfielders. Colton Cowser and Heston Kjerstad are integral to Baltimore’s future outfield and won’t be moved. Anthony Santander is having his best season, Austin Hays is performing well, and Kyle Stowers needs more playing time. Top prospect Connor Norby is also ready for a call-up.
This situation leaves Cedric Mullins, who is talented but could become a casualty of the Orioles’ depth. Keeping Stowers and Norby on the bench to accommodate Mullins doesn’t make sense.
MLB insider Jim Bowden has mentioned the Philadelphia Phillies as a potential suitor for Mullins.
A trade between the Orioles and Phillies could benefit both teams. Mullins, 29, has had an inconsistent season, with a .214/.256/.373 slash line overall and a troubling .188/.212/.250 in July across 32 at-bats. Despite his struggles, his potential could be valuable to the Phillies, though he’s less critical to the Orioles’ plans due to his blockage of younger talent.
With an additional year of team control, Mullins won’t be the cheapest player available on the trade market.