3 Baltimore Orioles Players Who Won't Be Back Next Season

The Baltimore Orioles endured a challenging postseason in 2023, shedding light on the likely departures of four crucial players from their roster for the upcoming 2024 season, according to Fansided.

Aaron Hicks, the veteran outfielder acquired mid-season from the New York Yankees, delivered a remarkable turnaround for the Orioles.

After coming to Baltimore, Hicks posted a .275/.381/.425 triple-slash line, with seven home runs, 31 RBIs, six stolen bases, and 35 runs scored across 65 games played.

However, at 34 years old and with a track record of inconsistency, the Orioles may hesitate to rely on him as a long-term solution.

Aaron Hicks with the Yankees this season:

28 games
.524 OPS
-0.5 bWAR

Aaron Hicks with the Orioles this season:

65 games
.806 OPS
1.0 bWARpic.twitter.com/k18kEDNzoq

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) October 9, 2023

With a budding young core, the team might be inclined to explore other options to solidify their outfield.

Kyle Gibson, the veteran starter who contributed significantly to the Orioles' 2023 season, made numerous starts and brought experience to the rotation.

However, his performance didn't reach the level of excellence needed, and the Orioles' postseason exit emphasized the need for pitching upgrades.

In his first season in Baltimore, the 35-year-old posted a 4.73 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, with 157 strikeouts across 192 innings and 33 starts.

Kyle Gibson, a pending free agent: "You try to enjoy every moment you can, and I think we did a really good job of maximizing the fun and the relationships we have. But these guys will be friends for a long time, whether I'm on their team or not."

— Nathan Ruiz (@NathanSRuiz) October 11, 2023

Given Gibson's age and recent performance trends, his return to the team in 2024 appears unlikely.

Finally, Jack Flaherty, acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals at the trade deadline, didn't meet the expectations set for him.

Flaherty was already having a rough season before getting dealt to the Orioles, but it got even worse afterward, posting a 6.75 ERA, 1.67 WHIP, with 42 strikeouts across 34.2 innings and nine appearances.

The Rangers spent big money in the off-season to bring in starting pitching.

When health issues arose, they spent more money and prospect capital on Scherzer, Montgomery and Chapman.

The Orioles with a bad rotation went out and got... Jack Flaherty.

K

— Austin (@2_seamfastball) October 11, 2023

His inconsistency and struggles in crucial moments have raised doubts about his future with the Orioles.

As the team seeks to strengthen their rotation, it seems they will explore more reliable pitching options, potentially leaving Flaherty without a spot on the 2024 roster. Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports