Key Offseason Changes
The Orioles made the splashiest offseason in franchise history, headlined by signing Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract, the highest AAV ever given to a first baseman and the largest financial commitment in Orioles history since Chris Davis. The five-time All-Star brings 38+ HR power and 126 RBI production to an already potent lineup.
Baltimore also acquired Taylor Ward from the Angels (trading Grayson Rodriguez), signed closer Ryan Helsley (2yr/$28M), added Shane Baz from Tampa Bay for four top-30 prospects, and signed Zach Eflin (1yr/$10M). Andrew Kittredge was re-acquired for cash. The Orioles are still linked to Framber Valdez, Justin Verlander, and Zac Gallen as they look to solidify the rotation.
Craig Albernaz takes over as manager for his first season after the team went 75-87 in 2025 and missed the playoffs. The expectation is a significant bounce-back with the aggressive offseason additions.
Projected Starting Lineup
| Order | Player | Position | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gunnar Henderson | SS | MVP candidate, 35+ HR power |
| 2 | Adley Rutschman | C | Elite switch-hitting catcher |
| 3 | Pete Alonso | 1B | 5yr/$155M, 38 HR in 2025 |
| 4 | Jordan Westburg | 3B | Breakout candidate, emerging power |
| 5 | Jackson Holliday | 2B | #1 prospect, elite ceiling |
| 6 | Taylor Ward | LF | Acquired from Angels, solid bat |
| 7 | Colton Cowser | CF | Young bat, developing power |
| 8 | Dylan Beavers | RF | Top prospect, MLB debut expected |
| 9 | Tyler O'Neill | DH | Power bat, platoon/DH role |
This lineup is absolutely loaded with impact bats. Gunnar Henderson is an MVP favorite with 35+ HR potential, while Adley Rutschman remains one of baseball's best catchers. Adding Pete Alonso's 38-homer power to a lineup that already included Henderson, Westburg, and Holliday creates a murderer's row. Jackson Holliday, the consensus #1 prospect in baseball, should get extended run at second base. The outfield is young but talented with Cowser and Beavers projecting as future stars.
Projected Starting Rotation
| Slot | Pitcher | Throws | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SP1 | Trevor Rogers | L | Ace role, bounce-back candidate |
| SP2 | Kyle Bradish | R | Emerging ace, strikeout upside |
| SP3 | Shane Baz | R | Acquired from Rays, high ceiling |
| SP4 | Zach Eflin | R | 1yr/$10M, veteran stability |
| SP5 | Dean Kremer | R | Depth option, innings eater |
The rotation underwent significant changes after trading Grayson Rodriguez for Taylor Ward. Kyle Bradish has emerged as the homegrown ace, while Shane Baz brings elite stuff from Tampa Bay. The Orioles continue to pursue Framber Valdez, Zac Gallen, and Justin Verlander to add a true frontline arm. Zach Eflin provides veteran stability on a one-year deal, and Dean Kremer offers reliable depth. If Baltimore lands another top starter, this rotation could jump from average to elite.
Bullpen & Closer Situation
Closer: Felix Bautista returns as the dominant closer with triple-digit velocity. The addition of Ryan Helsley (2yr/$28M) provides elite insurance and could split save opportunities. Helsley was one of baseball's best relievers in 2024-25, making this potentially a two-headed monster at the back of the bullpen.
Setup: Yennier Cano provides high-leverage depth with swing-and-miss stuff. Andrew Kittredge was re-acquired and brings veteran experience. Keegan Akin serves as the lefty specialist with excellent splits against left-handed hitters.
Middle Relief: Rico Garcia and Dietrich Enns round out a bullpen that prioritizes velocity and strikeouts. The Orioles are reportedly still looking to add a quality left-handed reliever before spring training.