Orioles Wrap Up Spring with a Shutout Against Nationals
In a fitting end to their exhibition schedule, the Orioles blanked the Nationals 2-0, showcasing a dominant pitching performance that has fans buzzing. Shane Baz, set to start in the regular season against the Twins, was in fine form, cruising through five scoreless innings.
He was followed by Chris Bassitt, who continued the shutout with two spotless innings of his own. With the stands filled with 9,389 fans at Nationals Park, it was a chilly yet thrilling afternoon for Baltimore supporters.
Manager Craig Albernaz had nothing but praise for his squad's spring training efforts. "The work, the intensity, the competitiveness-it was all there," Albernaz noted. The camaraderie and determination in the clubhouse have set a promising tone for the season ahead.
On the roster front, infielder Thairo Estrada was released, while catcher Maverick Handley and first baseman/outfielder Jhonkensy Noel were sent to minor league camp. Estrada struggled at the plate, but Noel's impressive .391 average and 1.158 OPS caught eyes, leaving fans eager to see his future contributions.
The Orioles are heading into the season with 39 players on their roster, including notable injuries to relievers Félix Bautista and Colin Selby. Infielder Luis Vázquez also suffered a setback with a broken thumb. Meanwhile, updates on lefty reliever Keegan Akin and outfielder Heston Kjerstad remain pending after recent MRIs.
Joseph Dzierwa, a standout in the minors, earned a spot on the All-Spring Breakout Team after a stellar performance against the Red Sox. His eight strikeouts in three innings are a testament to the depth the Orioles have in their pitching ranks.
Fans can catch early-season games on the ESPN App, with matchups against the Rangers, Royals, and Yankees on the schedule. These games promise to be exciting as the Orioles look to make a strong start.
Baz delivered an efficient 73-pitch outing, striking out five without issuing a walk. Bassitt, who forgot his glove and borrowed one from minor leaguer Ryan Long, looked equally sharp. "The talent in the room is there," Bassitt remarked, emphasizing the importance of team belief and resilience.
Leody Taveras capped off the day with a two-run homer in the seventh, a perfect send-off into the regular season. "That’s all we need going into the season," Taveras said with a smile.
The Nationals, despite using nine pitchers, couldn't muster much excitement for their fans. Former Oriole Cionel Pérez did manage a scoreless inning, offering a bright spot in an otherwise quiet day for Washington.
Utility player Weston Wilson is vying for a final roster spot, reflecting on the unpredictability of the process. "I think it’s out of control at this point," Wilson admitted, acknowledging the tough competition.
Nationals manager Blake Butera, the youngest in the majors, shares a strong bond with Albernaz from their days in Tampa Bay's organization. Albernaz had high praise for his friend, highlighting Butera's ability to bring out the best in his players.
Albernaz summed up the team's spring effort succinctly: "They brought it every day. That’s all you can ask for."
As the Orioles prepare for Opening Day against the Twins, with Trevor Rogers taking the mound, they leave behind a spring record of 13-13-3. With the regular season just around the corner, excitement is building in Baltimore.