Soto isn't a special guy in the bullpen. He's a guy who can be dominant for 2 weeks and then implode when you need him most. I would rather upgrade his spot in the bullpen. Can probably get a much better guy in free agency for 2 years/$16 mill or a little more, so no extra money. Will Elias be willing to nontender him, thereby admitting he made a mistake? Coulombe is definitely a keeper. Akin and Perez have their moments. I feel like one of them is brought back. I would say Akin can provide longer outings and Perez has more upside. If I had to guess, the O's keep Akin.
This is a big question IMO. I am not sure it is an either or, though. I would try to do both. Keep O'Hearn for one year as a veteran presence to platoon with Mayo (presumably Mountie is traded) and spend FA money to IMPROVE on the RH outfield spot taken by Hays/Slater.
So essentially replay Mountcastle/Hays with Mayo/FA.
Mullins, Cowser and Holliday all may have trouble hitting lefties. If Mateo can play center field it improves his chances of having a role on the team. Mateo can hit lefties, is the best SS backup defensively when Gunnar gets his 7 days off a year. Mateo can also be a defensive replacement at SS when the game is lopsided. But most of his at bats would come in center IMO.
Urias is mostly a 3B/2B guy. Can platoon with Holliday if necessary.
I think Mateo Is tendered a contract and they work out the details of where he plays in ST. He is a special talent that adds speed to the team. If he is healthy.
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