Why the Orioles Shouldn’t Trade Coby Mayo

Mayo, 24, is a former top prospect whom MLB Pipeline ranked as high as No. 30 in all of baseball in 2024. Through his first 102 career big league games, he has struggled to a .201/.285/.349 slash line and a 31.2% strikeout rate. However, the righty slugger showed signs of a breakthrough late last season, posting a .941 OPS with five home runs in 24 September games.

The bigger question mark for Mayo has been his defense. The 2020 fourth-round pick came up through the minors as a third baseman, but through 87 MLB innings there, he is credited with -4 defensive runs saved. His glove has improved over the years, while his throwing remains a concern.

Baltimore deployed Mayo almost exclusively at first base last season, where his 6-foot-4, 230-pound frame has translated better (0 DRS in 606.1 career MLB innings). That position is now blocked by Alonso, who signed a five-year, $155 million deal this winter.

Although the primary third base spot is typically occupied by Westburg, who is currently expected to be ready for Opening Day, Baltimore may use him more frequently at second base in Holliday’s absence. Given the tricky nature of oblique injuries, however, the Orioles need to prepare contingency plans in case Westburg suffers a setback.

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Jeremiah Jackson, who entered camp vying for a utility spot, has taken the bulk of the reps at second base with both starting infielders out. There are others with the flexibility to play both positions, including Luis Vázquez and Blaze Alexander, but none offer the same pop Mayo can provide to the lineup.

Mayo’s future with the Orioles is very much up in the air, as he has just one minor league option remaining and no clear long-term positional fit. That said, the club should put trade talks involving him on hold until their starting infield returns to full health.

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