Beyond Bateman: Orioles Unearth Hidden Gems

The Baltimore Orioles' significant seven-player trade in 2025, involving Ryan O'Hearn and Ramón Laureano heading to San Diego for five prospects, is beginning to reveal its hidden value. Among the acquired players, Brandon Butterworth has emerged as a versatile defender, demonstrating proficiency at second base, shortstop, third base, left field, and center field. His strong glove and arm have drawn praise, with projections leaning towards a utility infielder role.

Offensively, Butterworth recorded career highs in 2026 at Double-A Chesapeake, batting .269/.377/.497 with 10 home runs before a knee injury sidelined him. After returning, he earned a promotion to Triple-A Norfolk, though he struggled initially. He is slated to play in the Arizona Fall League to gain more experience.

Victor Figueroa, another prospect from the same trade, presents a different profile as a power-hitting first baseman. He led all Orioles minor leaguers in 2026 with 27 home runs, hitting 22 in High-A Frederick before being promoted to Double-A Chesapeake. Despite a high strikeout rate and struggles against left-handed pitching, Figueroa's raw power offers potential as a bench bat.

While neither Butterworth nor Figueroa are considered star prospects, their development suggests they could become valuable complementary pieces for the Orioles, offering a potential utility role and a power bat, respectively, should they reach the major leagues.