The Baltimore Orioles are gearing up for a comeback in the 2026 MLB Playoffs after a challenging 2025 season. With a fresh face at the helm, new manager Craig Albernaz has unveiled the pitching rotation that he hopes will lead the charge. The lineup features Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, and Zach Eflin, with Rogers set to take the mound as the Opening Day starter against the Minnesota Twins.
Last season, the Orioles wrapped up with a 75-87 record, falling short of a playoff berth. Albernaz, who brings experience from coaching stints with the Tampa Bay Rays, San Francisco Giants, and Cleveland Guardians, is looking to turn things around in Baltimore.
In a bold offseason move, the Orioles landed free agent star Pete Alonso, who opted not to re-sign with the New York Mets. Alonso is expected to be a cornerstone of Baltimore's offensive strategy.
The team is eager to see Alonso team up with promising young slugger Jackson Holliday. However, Holliday is currently sidelined due to a fractured hamate bone in his right hand. The 22-year-old underwent surgery in mid-February and is working towards a return, potentially starting a rehab assignment with Triple-A as the season kicks off.
Baltimore's pitching staff has undergone a significant transformation. Zach Eflin is the lone holdover from last year's Opening Day roster. Eflin, who inked a one-year extension with the Orioles, was part of a rotation that included Dean Kremer, Charlie Morton, Tomoyuki Sugano, and Cade Povich, none of whom remain with the team.
The Orioles are set to open their season on March 26 against the Twins, following a spring training matchup with the Washington Nationals. With a revamped lineup and renewed energy, Baltimore is poised to make waves this season.