The Baltimore Orioles have made a notable move in advance of spring training, acquiring infielder Blaze Alexander from the Arizona Diamondbacks. In exchange, the Orioles will send right-hander Kade Strowd along with two prospects, Wellington Aracena and Jose Mejia. The trade was confirmed on March 7, 2024, by sources with direct knowledge of the agreement.
At 26 years old, Alexander was once considered a top 100 MLB draft prospect in 2018, according to rankings by Baseball America. He was selected in the 11th round by the Diamondbacks after choosing to forego college with a signing bonus of $500,000. Although his progress was hampered by the pandemic, he eventually ascended through the Diamondbacks’ farm system, making his major league debut in 2024. Over the past two seasons, he has recorded a batting line of .237/.322/.366, hitting 10 home runs and stealing seven bases in 135 games while navigating time between the majors and Triple-A.
Alexander is primarily a shortstop but is versatile enough to also play second and third base. This adaptability positions him as a leading candidate to serve as the Orioles’ utility infielder as they approach the upcoming season. Notably, he is out of minor league options and remains under team control through 2030.
The trade required the Orioles to part with Strowd, who was viewed as a prominent contender for a bullpen position. Additionally, both Aracena and Mejia are regarded as long-term prospects. Aracena, a 21-year-old right-hander, was obtained from the New York Mets during last season’s trade deadline in the deal for pitcher Gregory Soto. Mejia, 20, has had limited exposure, having played in just two games above Low-A.
By trading Strowd, the Orioles have made a strategic decision in a bullpen that was already in flux. While closer Ryan Helsley and setup man Andrew Kittredge are solidified in high-leverage roles, the remainder of the bullpen is wide open as the team heads into spring training, creating an intriguing competition for roster spots.
Despite this trade, the front end of the rotation, which is seen as a critical area of need, remains unchanged for the moment. As the Orioles prepare for the new season, fans will be eager to see how Alexander integrates into the roster and how the team’s pitching depth evolves.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available. For news tips, contact Matt Weyrich at [email protected] or call 410-332-6200. Follow him on social media for further updates.
