Former Orioles Top Outfield Prospect Continues Struggles at MLB Level

The Baltimore Orioles have long been heralded for their deep farm system and the promise of emerging stars. Among these, outfielder Colton Cowser stood out as a beacon of hope for the franchise’s future. However, as the 2025 MLB season unfolds, Cowser’s performance at the major league level has raised concerns, casting a shadow over the Orioles’ outfield prospects.

Colton Cowser was drafted by the Orioles in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft and quickly ascended through the minor league ranks. By 2024, he had made his MLB debut, showcasing his potential with a .242/.321/.447 slash line, 24 home runs, and 69 RBIs over 153 games . His performance earned him a second-place finish in the American League Rookie of the Year voting, narrowly losing to New York Yankees pitcher Luis Gil.

Despite a promising start, Cowser’s trajectory has been marred by inconsistency. A broken left hand sustained during the 2024 Wild Card Series against the Kansas City Royals sidelined him for the remainder of the postseason . This injury, while not severe, seemed to halt his momentum.

Entering the 2025 season, expectations were high for Cowser. However, his performance has been underwhelming. As of mid-May, Cowser’s batting average hovers around .220, with a concerning strikeout rate exceeding 30%. His defensive metrics have also declined, with advanced statistics indicating a drop in his outfield efficiency.

The Orioles’ front office, led by general manager Mike Elias, has been patient with Cowser, understanding the challenges young players face when transitioning to the majors. However, the team’s current standing and the influx of other promising outfield prospects have intensified the scrutiny on Cowser’s performance.

The Orioles’ outfield depth has been bolstered by the rise of several young talents. Heston Kjerstad, Enrique Bradfield Jr., and Vance Honeycutt have all shown flashes of brilliance in the minors, prompting discussions about their potential roles in the major league lineup. Bradfield, in particular, has been lauded for his exceptional speed and defensive prowess, while Kjerstad’s power-hitting abilities have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s elite sluggers.

This influx of talent has placed additional pressure on Cowser. The Orioles are at a crossroads, needing to decide whether to continue investing in Cowser’s development or to explore other options that might offer more immediate returns.

The Orioles’ dilemma is multifaceted. On one hand, they have a young core led by players like Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson, who are under team control for several more seasons. On the other hand, the team’s contention window is narrowing, and the need for immediate contributors is pressing .

The front office’s cautious approach to roster moves, avoiding major trades or long-term financial commitments, reflects this delicate balance. While the emergence of young outfield prospects offers hope for the future, the current struggles of Cowser and others highlight the uncertainties inherent in player development.

For Colton Cowser, the remainder of the 2025 season is pivotal. The Orioles will need to assess whether his struggles are part of the typical growing pains associated with young players or indicative of deeper issues that may require a change in direction.

The organization’s handling of Cowser’s situation will likely influence its approach to other young talents and its overall strategy in the coming seasons. As the Orioles continue to navigate the complexities of player development and team building, the performance of their outfield prospects will be a key storyline to watch.

Colton Cowser’s journey from a top outfield prospect to a struggling major leaguer underscores the challenges faced by young players in the MLB. While the Orioles remain hopeful that Cowser can rediscover his form, the emergence of other promising talents has added a layer of complexity to the team’s decision-making process. As the season progresses, the Orioles’ handling of Cowser’s development will be crucial in shaping the future of their outfield and their overall success.