Mateo, one of MLB’s fastest players, joined the Orioles in 2021 as a former top prospect seeking to establish himself in the big leagues. He was one of the best defensive shortstops in 2022 and has been a relied-upon role player — despite his offensive struggles — over the past two seasons.

The Orioles haven’t frequently shopped in the Japanese market for free agents but, after bringing former outfielder Adam Jones aboard in a front-office role, they might soon foray into that territory more often.

Adam Jones joins Hot Stove after being named Orioles Special Advisor to GM & Community Ambassador, to talk about his new role and more

The front office vision shared by the newcomers who marched into Camden Yards beginning in the winter of 2018 required them to gaze into the past. To look back while also trying to push a flailing franchise forward.