The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly no longer interested in trading for Miami Marlins right-handed starter Edward Cabrera, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
“Marlins will listen on Cabrera, but two suitors (Houston, Baltimore) are no longer involved and Marlins don’t want to sell short on him,” Jackson wrote on X.
Baltimore has instead elected to pursue alternative options to address its starting rotation, which remains the most notable weakness on an otherwise well-rounded roster. Cabrera would have been a strong fit for the Orioles. The 27-year-old enjoyed a breakout campaign, posting a 3.53 ERA across 26 starts while striking out 150 batters.
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His improved command and durability suggested a pitcher taking a meaningful step forward, making him an appealing long-term option for a contending team like Baltimore.
However, several factors likely contributed to the Orioles backing away from trade talks. First, recent trade history may have played a role. The Orioles already parted with significant prospect capital earlier this offseason in the deal that brought Shane Baz into the organization. Like Cabrera, Baz is a controllable, high-upside arm with multiple years of team control remaining.
The prospect haul required to acquire Cabrera would likely have mirrored or even exceeded the package Baltimore surrendered for Baz. After investing heavily in one young starter, the Orioles may have been unwilling or unable to dip back into their farm system for a similar type of arm, especially with immediate needs elsewhere on the roster.
Second, Miami’s asking price was likely steep. The Marlins have consistently fielded trade inquiries on both Cabrera and ace Sandy Alcantara, yet have resisted moving either pitcher unless overwhelmed by an offer.
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Given Cabrera’s age, recent performance and remaining team control, Miami had little incentive to sell low on the rising star.
Finally, Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias may be eyeing a bigger splash elsewhere. With several high-end starting pitchers potentially available via free agency or trade this offseason, Baltimore could prefer to preserve its prospect depth and pursue a more proven frontline arm.
Veteran left-handed starters such as Framber Valdez or Ranger Suarez, or high-profile international options like Tatsuya Imai, would provide immediate stability and postseason experience to a young rotation.
In the end, while Cabrera made sense on paper, Baltimore’s decision reflects a calculated approach. The Orioles are balancing present contention with long-term sustainability, aiming to strengthen their rotation without sacrificing the depth that has fueled their rise.