Baltimore Orioles "Have Expressed Interest" In 10-Year Veteran Starter

The Baltimore Orioles have shown interest in signing free-agent pitcher James Paxton.

Paxton, known for his time with the Seattle Mariners and the Boston Red Sox, is seen as a potential addition to the Orioles' starting rotation, which already has solid starters but is looking to improve further.

Paxton's career has been marked by significant achievements as well as challenges.

The #Orioles have expressed interest in free-agent SP James Paxton, per @JonHeyman pic.twitter.com/AEKzUHIwfK

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) January 12, 2024

He established himself as one of the better pitchers during his six seasons with the Mariners, where he maintained a 3.42 ERA.

However, his career has been somewhat marred by injuries. After his stint with the New York Yankees, where he experienced some minor injuries but still performed well, Paxton faced more serious challenges.

A left flexor strain in 2020 and a left forearm strain in 2021, which required Tommy John surgery, significantly impacted his playing time.

Why on earth would the Orioles sign James Paxton, the guy who can never stay healthy.

— Shawn Ambrose (@BirdLandGaming) January 15, 2024

Despite these setbacks, Paxton showed resilience and made a comeback with the Red Sox in 2023.

He made 19 starts, showing a consistent K/BB ratio in line with his career numbers, but his season was cut short due to right knee inflammation.

Last season, the 35-year-old posted a 4.50 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, with 101 strikeouts across 96 innings and 19 starts.

This history indicates that while Paxton possesses undeniable skill and experience, his injury history may be a concern for teams considering signing him. Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports