Orioles Weigh Trade Options for Mayo and Mountcastle Amidst Spring Training
As Spring Training commences, the Baltimore Orioles are actively exploring potential trades involving corner infielders Coby Mayo and Ryan Mountcastle, according to reports from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic . This development arrives shortly after second baseman Jackson Holliday underwent hamate surgery, sidelining him for the start of the season.
Holliday’s Injury Creates Roster Flexibility
Holliday’s absence opens a pathway for the Orioles to potentially retain both Mayo and Mountcastle by shifting Jordan Westburg to second base. Mayo could then play third base, a position where he has received the majority of his playing time throughout his career. Although, the Orioles initially considered moving Mayo to first base or utilizing him as a designated hitter due to concerns about his defensive capabilities at third base.
Roster Congestion and Trade Value
Even with Holliday sidelined, the Orioles face a crowded roster with Pete Alonso at first base, Taylor Ward in left field and Samuel Basallo expected to share duties as a designated hitter and backup catcher to Adley Rutschman. Rosenthal indicates that Mayo likely holds more trade value than Mountcastle.
Coby Mayo: A Valuable Trade Asset
Mayo, a former top prospect, has shown promise with a .95 wRC+ in 85 games last year, improving to a .109 wRC+ after the All-Star break. At 24 years old, he has six years of team control remaining and is currently earning the league minimum salary, making him an attractive option for teams seeking right-handed power in a corner position. The Orioles, however, would likely demand a significant return for the young player.
Ryan Mountcastle: Limited Trade Market
Mountcastle, a six-year MLB veteran, is set to turn 29 this week. While he previously demonstrated a career .265/.316/.450 (111 wRC+) batting average, an injury-plagued 2025 season resulted in an 81 wRC+ in 89 games. He signed a one-year, $6.787 million deal with a $7.5 million club option for 2027, potentially offering some value to an acquiring team. However, his below-replacement-level performance last year and salary suggest he wouldn’t command substantial trade capital.
Potential Trade Partners
Possible teams that could be interested in Mountcastle include the Cleveland Guardians, Texas Rangers, or Chicago Cubs, who might benefit from adding right-handed power. Teams with more rebuilding focus, such as the Washington Nationals, Colorado Rockies, or Chicago White Sox, could view Mountcastle as a potential bounceback candidate. Similar teams could as well be interested in Mayo, though at a higher cost. The New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Miami Marlins could be long-term fits for Mayo, particularly if they believe he can handle third base.