As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Baltimore Orioles continue searching for the best path forward after a disappointing season. While much of the focus has centered on whether the club will buy or sell, a respected MLB insider has now floated a surprising idea involving Trevor Rogers. The proposal offers a fresh perspective on how Baltimore could approach the 2026 MLB trade deadline.
MLB Insider Suggests Surprising Path for Trevor Rogers
The Orioles currently sit two games back of the final Wild Card spot in the American League. With under one week until the 2026 MLB trade deadline, it makes sense for Baltimore to buy before next Monday. However, an MLB insider has suggested a different path for the Orioles, specifically for Rogers.
The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal believes it might be “best” to trade Rogers and outfielder Taylor Ward at the 2026 MLB trade deadline, as said by the insider on Fair Territory. Rogers, who has a 4.17 ERA in 2026, has been a great starting pitcher for the Orioles since being traded from the Miami Marlins in 2024.
However, the 28-year-old starting pitcher is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the conclusion of the 2026 MLB season. To this point, the Orioles haven’t agreed to a contract extension with Rogers, but they did give Kyle Bradish a five-year, $90 million deal earlier in July.
Should Baltimore trade Rogers at the MLB trade deadline? While the organization remains in contention, it does make sense long-term.
Why Trading Trevor Rogers Could Make Sense for Baltimore Orioles
Jul 24, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Trevor Rogers (28) delivers during the third inning against the Atlanta Braves at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn ImagesCredit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Rogers was sensational during the 2025 MLB season, posting a 1.80 ERA in 18 games. The overall performance of 2026 hasn’t been on the same level, but Rogers has been very good since the start of June. Ironically, he is boasting a 1.80 ERA in those starts. Should Baltimore move the starting pitcher? It might be the wise move.
If the Orioles keep Rogers in a push to the 2026 MLB postseason, they could lose him for nothing in free agency. The same goes for Ward, who was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels last offseason. However, does Baltimore believe it can make a push to the World Series in a weak American League?
The organization has to go “all-in” on buying or selling. The Orioles can’t play in the middle by selling while hoping to compete. Therefore, if Baltimore believes an extension is unlikely, it would be smart to maximize Rogers’ value ahead of the 2026 MLB trade deadline. If so, Ward should be moved as well.
However, the Orioles are fully capable of making the 2026 MLB postseason with a two-game deficit to the Wild Card. If Baltimore decided to buy, it would give it an even greater chance of earning a spot in the postseason. It’s a tough decision, but there are positives to both directions.
What’s Next for the Baltimore Orioles Before the Trade Deadline?
Baltimore has to decide whether to buy or sell at the 2026 MLB trade deadline. Rogers is one of the best pitchers in MLB when he is hitting his marks, and the Orioles need him for a postseason run. Baltimore has a tough decision to make moving forward, and Rogers will be at the centerpiece of its plans no matter what happens.
Should the Baltimore Orioles trade Trevor Rogers or keep him for a postseason run?
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Austin Konenski is a writer at Sportsnaut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA, and more. His work can also … More about Austin Konenski