The Baltimore Orioles are continuing to investigate trade options for infielders Coby Mayo and Ryan Mountcastle as Spring Training approaches. This comes amid a roster logjam exacerbated by Jackson Holliday's recent hamate surgery. While temporary openings exist due to the injury, long-term infield spots remain limited.
According to a report from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Orioles are exploring possibilities to deal one of their right-handed corner infielders ahead of the season. Jackson Holliday's hamate surgery in his right hand is expected to sideline him for the start of the 2026 campaign, potentially allowing Mayo to play third base and shifting Jordan Westburg to second base. Mountcastle could serve as depth behind Pete Alonso at first base and Samuel Basallo at designated hitter.
However, Mayo's defensive challenges at third base have led the team to consider him for first base or DH roles. The presence of Alonso at first, Taylor Ward in left field, and Basallo's DH duties when not catching creates ongoing difficulties in accommodating both Mayo and Mountcastle throughout the year.
Mayo, who turned 24 in December, remains under team control for six seasons and earns the league minimum salary. In 85 games last year, he posted a 95 wRC+, improving to 109 after the All-Star break. As a former top prospect, he holds significant trade value for teams seeking right-handed power in the corners.
Mountcastle, approaching his 29th birthday, is a six-year MLB veteran entering the final year of his contract at $6.787 million, with a $7.5 million club option for 2027. His career line stands at .265/.316/.450 (111 wRC+), but injuries limited him to 89 games in 2025 with an 81 wRC+. Despite avoiding non-tender last winter, his trade market may be limited compared to Mayo's, though teams like the Guardians, Rangers, or Cubs could view him as a right-handed addition at first base or DH.
The Orioles' offseason moves, including signing Alonso, have bolstered contention plans but highlighted needs in starting pitching, outfield depth, and left-handed infielders. Trading Mountcastle could address these, while moving Mayo would likely command a higher return.
