3 Orioles trade candidates Billy Eppler should keep an eye on this year

3). NY Mets Trade Target: Cionel Perez

They always say having a quality reliever or a great closer on a non-contending team is a luxury, and that could potentially be the case for the Orioles this upcoming season should they be out of contention at the trade deadline. Last year the Orioles traded their All-Star closer Jorge Lopez at the Trade Deadline to the Minnesota Twins and the same could happen again this season with reliever Cionel Perez.

The 26-year-old southpaw had a stellar 2022 campaign with the Orioles as he pitched to a 1.40 ERA and 1.162 WHIP over 66 appearances out of the bullpen. Perez pitched equally well against both right-handed and left-handed hitters as right-handers hit .218 and lefties hit .224 against him.

It was a true breakout season for Perez who is going to be a major part of the Orioles bullpen this season, but he also could be a valuable trade chip for contending teams looking to upgrade their bullpen later this summer. Perez may also cost some significant talent in return as he is arbitration-eligible for the first time in 2024 and is not scheduled to be a free agent until 2027.

If the Mets are looking for another left-hander later in the summer, Perez may be worth a long look, especially if the Orioles are making him available to be had.