What should Orioles’ priorities be this offseason? | MAILBAG
Question: So let’s spend his money! Who do you think his priorities by way of Elias, will be? From: Les Diver
Answer: Les, I think the Orioles will make offers for starting pitcher Corbin Burnes and outfielder Anthony Santander, though we don’t know if they’ll be competitive. I think they’ll explore extensions with the core of their young players, and make multi-year offers to free agents.
If they don’t retain Burnes, I think they’ll try to get a solid starter, and even if they keep Santander, they need another veteran right-handed hitting outfielder with postseason experience.
I’ll guess they’ll sign two free agents and make some trades.
Question: I couldn’t help noticing the substantial number of empty seats during the KC series and worried that a lack of support during the playoffs would give ownership pause. Mr. Rubenstein could see that as a marketing opportunity of course or take a more negative view. How do you think he views our attendance going forward? From: Jim Anderson
Answer: Jim, I’ve heard lots of reasons for the 10,000-to-12,000 empty seats at the two playoff games. Sensible owners, and Rubenstein certainly is one, aren’t going to blame the fans for not selling out the ballpark.
Catie Griggs, the team’s new president of business operations, spoke at length about how she’d like to reduce the number of empty seats, so I say Rubenstein looks at it as an opportunity.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: [email protected]. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.