The Baltimore Orioles acquired utility infielder and outfielder Blaze Alexander from the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday, bolstering their infield depth. In exchange, Arizona received right-hander Kade Strowd along with minor leaguers Wellington Aracena and José Mejía. Alexander, a 26-year-old former top prospect, brings versatility to Baltimore's roster ahead of spring training.
The trade surprised some observers who anticipated the Orioles would prioritize pitching acquisitions, but president of baseball operations Mike Elias focused instead on strengthening the position-player side. Baltimore, already boasting a robust lineup after signing first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract, adding center fielder Leody Taveras on a one-year, $2 million deal, and obtaining outfielder Taylor Ward from the Angels, sought additional infield options.
Alexander has appeared in 135 major league games over the past two seasons. In 74 games for Arizona last year, the right-handed hitter posted a .230 average with 12 doubles, one triple, seven home runs, 28 RBIs, and a .706 OPS. He started 49 games at third base, 14 at second base, three in center field, and appeared four times in left field, while also playing shortstop 20 times during the 2024 season. Out of minor league options, Alexander can cover all infield positions and provide outfield support if needed.
The Orioles' projected starting infield includes second baseman Jackson Holliday, shortstop Gunnar Henderson, and third baseman Jordan Westburg, with Alexander positioned as a potential backup for each. Defensively, he ranked in the 70th percentile among fielders with +1 outs above average and the 86th percentile in sprint speed at 28.8 feet per second. His center field capability could complement left-handed hitter Colton Cowser and switch-hitter Leody Taveras.
The deal impacts Baltimore's bullpen, as Strowd, 28, impressed in his 2024 debut with a 1.71 ERA over 26 1/3 innings in 25 appearances and was expected to compete for a roster spot. Aracena, the Orioles' No. 26 prospect, is a 21-year-old right-hander who posted a 2.35 ERA in five High-A starts last season after being acquired from the Mets. Mejía, 20, signed from the Dominican Republic in January 2023 and hit .274 with an .829 OPS in 47 Florida Complex League games.
Pitchers and catchers report Tuesday to the Ed Smith Stadium complex in Sarasota, Florida, with Opening Day set for March 26. The Orioles continue seeking pitching reinforcements.
