MLB
CONFIRMED: Pitcher Corbin Burnes Inks a Six-year $180 million deal with Baltimore Orioles to become the highest paid American MLB players in history.
CONFIRMED: Pitcher Corbin Burnes Inks a Six-Year $180 Million Deal with Baltimore Orioles to Become Highest Paid American MLB Player in History.
In a groundbreaking move that reshapes the financial landscape of Major League Baseball, the Baltimore Orioles have signed star pitcher Corbin Burnes to a six-year, $180 million contract. The deal not only reinforces the Orioles’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team but also establishes Burnes as the highest-paid American player in MLB history, a distinction that cements his status as one of the game’s elite talents.
Burnes’ contract, which averages $30 million annually, surpasses previous high-water marks for American players in the league. The deal reflects Burnes’ dominance on the mound, as well as the Orioles’ determination to solidify their rotation as they transition from rebuilding to contending.
The 30-year-old right-hander has been a force since his breakout Cy Young season in 2021 with the Milwaukee Brewers. Known for his electric cutter, pinpoint control, and relentless competitiveness, Burnes has consistently ranked among MLB’s top pitchers. Over the past three seasons, he has posted a sub-3.00 ERA, struck out batters at an elite rate, and emerged as a durable workhorse capable of anchoring a rotation.
Baltimore’s pursuit of Burnes aligns with its resurgence as a playoff contender. The Orioles shocked many by reaching the postseason in 2023 and followed that up with another strong campaign in 2024. With a core of young, dynamic players like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Jackson Holliday, the Orioles are positioning themselves as perennial contenders in the American League East.
By adding Burnes, Baltimore sends a clear message: they are ready to compete not just for division titles but for World Series championships. Burnes’ leadership and experience could prove invaluable to the Orioles’ young rotation, which has shown promise but lacks a proven ace.
“I’m excited to join a team that’s on the rise and committed to winning,” Burnes said during his introductory press conference. “The Orioles have a great mix of talent, and I’m looking forward to helping this team achieve its ultimate goal.”
The historic nature of the deal has sent shockwaves through MLB. Burnes’ record-setting contract redefines market expectations for top-tier American pitchers, potentially influencing negotiations for players like Walker Buehler and Shane Bieber in the near future.
For the Orioles, the acquisition of Burnes is a calculated gamble. While his performance to date suggests he will remain an elite pitcher, any long-term deal carries risks, particularly for a pitcher in his 30s. However, Baltimore appears confident that Burnes’ skill set and durability make him a worthwhile investment.
Orioles fans have overwhelmingly embraced the signing, viewing it as a statement of intent from an organization often criticized for its conservative spending in free agency. Social media has been abuzz with excitement, with many calling the deal a turning point in Baltimore’s quest to return to glory.
“This is the kind of move we’ve been waiting for,” said one fan outside Camden Yards. “Burnes is the real deal, and now we’ve got an ace to lead us.”
With Burnes now anchoring their rotation, the Orioles appear poised for sustained success. The team’s next challenge will be maintaining balance, ensuring that their core remains intact while continuing to bolster their roster.
For Corbin Burnes, the journey in Baltimore is just beginning. As the highest-paid American player in MLB history, expectations are sky-high—but if his track record is any indication, Burnes is more than ready to rise to the occasion.
