Orioles Add Kade Strowd and Brandon Young to 40-Man Roster Ahead of Rule 5 Draft

The Baltimore Orioles have strengthened their roster by adding right-handers Kade Strowd and Brandon Young, ensuring they are protected from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. This move brings the Orioles' 40-man roster count to 39.

Kade Strowd, a 27-year-old right-hander, was a 12th-round pick by the Orioles in 2019. Over the past two years, Strowd has recorded 106 2/3 innings in the minors, posting a 5.32 ERA. Known for his strikeout ability and ground ball tendencies, he has an impressive 28.4% strikeout rate, although his 12.3% walk rate is a concern. Despite this, his potential to get grounders on more than half of balls in play makes him a valuable asset.

Brandon Young, 26, signed with the Orioles as an undrafted free agent in 2020. He faced challenges with elbow surgery that sidelined him for parts of 2022 and 2023 but rebounded this year. Young pitched 111 innings across 27 appearances in Double-A and Triple-A, achieving a combined 3.57 ERA. He impressed with a 28.5% strikeout rate and a commendable 8% walk rate.

Both Strowd and Young have reached Triple-A, providing immediate depth for the Orioles in 2025. Strowd is expected to bolster the bullpen, while Young could play a key role in the starting rotation. The Orioles' starting staff recently lost Corbin Burnes to free agency, and with Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells starting the season on the injured list, these additions are timely.

By securing Strowd and Young, the Orioles aim to retain their emerging talents and strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. These moves reflect the club's strategic planning as they continue to build a competitive team for the future.

​Fans will be eager to see how these players develop and contribute at the major league level.