Adley Rutschman Talks Health, Leadership, and High Hopes for 2026 Orioles
SARASOTA - After a frustrating, injury-riddled 2025 season, Adley Rutschman is back in camp, healthy and hungry. The Orioles’ 28-year-old catcher spoke with the media Wednesday, touching on everything from his offseason recovery to the team’s big addition of Pete Alonso, and why there’s a sense of urgency in the clubhouse heading into 2026.
Let’s break down what Rutschman had to say - and what it tells us about where the Orioles are headed.
On Pete Alonso’s Arrival: A Power Bat and a Veteran Voice
The Orioles made one of the splashiest moves of the offseason by bringing in Pete Alonso, and Rutschman is clearly excited to share a clubhouse with the former Home Run Derby champ.
“He’s a phenomenal player,” Rutschman said. “Very talented. I’m excited to get to know him.”
Rutschman’s only previous interaction with Alonso came during the 2023 Home Run Derby, but even that brief encounter left an impression. Now, the Orioles are counting on Alonso to bring more than just his power bat - they’re looking for his experience and approach to rub off on a young, talented core.
“He’s a veteran hitter. He knows what he’s doing in the box, has a great approach,” Rutschman added. “I think the guys can learn a lot from him.”
This isn’t just about adding a bat in the middle of the order - it’s about adding a presence. Alonso brings postseason experience, leadership, and a track record of consistency. For a team that’s been knocking on the door, that kind of addition matters.
On the Upgraded Roster: “We Have a Very Talented Squad”
With Alonso in the fold and a few other key offseason moves, Rutschman believes this version of the Orioles might be better than the one that wrapped up 2025.
“I believe they made some really good moves,” he said. “I think we have a very talented squad. It’s on us to go out and produce.”
There’s no mistaking the confidence in the room. The Orioles know they’ve built something special - now it’s about execution.
On His Offseason Focus: Health First
Rutschman’s 2025 season was derailed by not one, but two oblique strains - one on each side. He was limited to just 90 games and finished with a .220 average and a .673 OPS. For a player who’s been the heart of the Orioles’ rebuild, it was a frustrating step back.
“First year being on the IL - nothing worse than that,” he said.
This winter was all about making sure that doesn’t happen again.
“Just going through the offseason trying to make sure we’re checking all the boxes,” Rutschman explained. “Not only during the offseason, but making a plan during the season... doing all that I can to stay healthy, learning from last year.”
That kind of proactive approach is what you expect from a leader. Rutschman isn’t just trying to bounce back - he’s trying to build a foundation for long-term durability.
On 2026: “There’s No Time Like the Present”
There’s a quiet urgency in Rutschman’s tone - the kind that comes from knowing how fleeting success can be in baseball.
“You only get one year with the squad that you have in this locker room right now,” he said. “Whether it’s 15 years or five years or one year in the big leagues, you get a finite amount of time, and I think everyone here just wants to make the most of that.”
That message resonates. The Orioles have a clubhouse full of rising stars and established vets.
But windows don’t stay open forever. Rutschman knows this is a pivotal year - not just for him, but for the entire franchise.
“Especially after last year, [we want to] make sure we’re checking those boxes and taking the next step.”
On the Rotation: Confidence in the Arms
The interview took place before the Orioles finalized a one-year deal with veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, but even before that move, Rutschman had no doubts about the group on the mound.
“I have a ton of confidence in our guys,” he said. “Injuries are just something sometimes you can’t see or predict... I’m just praying that our guys are able to stay healthy because I think we’ve got a really good squad right now.”
Rutschman’s belief in the rotation is important - as the catcher, he’s the one guiding them through every pitch. His confidence speaks volumes about the trust and chemistry within the staff.
On Samuel Basallo: A Tandem in the Making
One of the more intriguing storylines this spring is how Rutschman and top catching prospect Samuel Basallo will share duties behind the plate.
“I’ve gotten a chance with Sammy to talk to him during spring trainings,” Rutschman said. “Even rehabbing and stuff like that, I feel like we’ve been around each other quite a bit.”
That early connection could be key. Basallo is one of the most exciting young players in the system, and Rutschman seems genuinely excited to mentor and work alongside him.
“He’s unbelievably talented,” Rutschman added. “He’s a very kind person and just like a good heart. I’m really excited for this year with him.”
This could be the beginning of a dynamic catching duo - and a smart way to keep Rutschman fresh over a long season.
On the New Player Development Complex: “Looks Sweet, Man”
The Orioles unveiled a brand-new player development complex this spring, and Rutschman is all-in.
“They did a great job with the layout of it - the hitting facility, the conference rooms,” he said. “I know guys are really excited about it.”
With a new coaching staff and upgraded facilities, the Orioles are investing in more than just talent - they’re investing in infrastructure. And for a team with postseason aspirations, those details matter.
On Manager Craig Albernaz: “He’s a Good Dude, and He’s a Great Coach”
New manager Craig Albernaz is already making a strong impression - and not just because of his catching background.
“High praises from everyone that I’ve talked to about him,” Rutschman said. “From my conversations with him, it’s been great so far.”
As a fellow catcher, Rutschman sees the game through a similar lens - and that shared perspective could make for a strong partnership.
“I’m biased towards catchers,” he joked. “I think catchers are the best.”
Bottom Line: Rutschman’s Ready
After a tough 2025, Adley Rutschman is healthy, focused, and locked in on helping the Orioles take the next step. Whether it’s mentoring young players, anchoring the pitching staff, or setting the tone in the clubhouse, he’s embracing the responsibility that comes with being one of the faces of the franchise.
And with a reloaded roster, a new manager, and a fresh sense of urgency, the Orioles are entering 2026 with big expectations - and Rutschman’s right at the center of it all.