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Orioles’ Helsley exercises $14 million option for 2027; Rogers, Bassitt, Akin, Kittredge declare free agency
Orioles closer Ryan Helsley activates his $14 million 2027 option after a limited 17‑game season marred by right elbow inflammation. The left‑hander posted a 0‑4 record, 4.11 ERA and eight saves in nine chances. He and Félix Bautista, fresh from rotator cuff and labrum surgery, are slated as the team's back‑end relievers next year. Meanwhile, left‑handed starter Trevor Rogers, right‑handed starter Chris Bassitt, reliever Andrew Kittredge and left‑handed reliever Keegan Akin have all entered free agency.
Banner will bring outside perspective to Orioles
Jared Banner steps in as the Baltimore Orioles' new general manager, bringing an outside perspective after years of internal promotions. In his inaugural press conference, Banner—known for his humor and brevity—explains he'll oversee players, coaches, development, and health, while President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias focuses on scouting and acquisitions. Elias praised Banner’s reputation and highlights a small yet growing front office, noting three assistant GMs and upcoming hires. Banner has already contacted manager Craig Albernaz, Cal Ripken Jr., and former stars Jim Palmer and Adam Jones, aiming to blend insights from his stints with the Red Sox, Cubs and Mets. Meanwhile, starter Chris Bassitt earns the MLBPA's Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award.
Who’s the greatest utility player in Orioles’ history? | MAILBAG
The blog tackles the debate over the Orioles’ greatest utility player, highlighting Melvin Mora’s 2003 six‑position All‑Star season and his rise to third‑base legend, while noting Ryan Flaherty’s club‑record seven positions in 2016 despite a modest .215 average. Emerging talents like Blaze Alexander, who’s already covered six spots this year, are also mentioned, along with historical depth‑chart challenges faced by Chico Salmon in the early ’70s. A separate Q&A addresses why former O’s reliever Bryan Baker flourished as Tampa Bay’s closer after a pitch‑mix change, contrasting the O’s success with other revived arms such as Rico Garcia and Félix Bautista. Readers get a concise overview of past and present utility contributors and a glimpse into the Orioles’ reliever development.
Peter Schmuck: New Orioles GM brings an added voice and some breathing room for Mike Elias
In his introductory press conference on Oct. 28, new Orioles GM Jared Banner outlined a collaborative vision with President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias. Banner praised the franchise’s history, fan base, and talent depth, while acknowledging recent fan frustration and promising to build a winner. He and Elias detailed a clear split of duties: Banner will oversee internal players, coaching, performance and health, whereas Elias handles scouting, acquisitions and contracts. The duo also hinted at maintaining staff continuity and borrowing successful ideas from other midsize clubs, all while navigating an upcoming labor deadline.
Classic Orioles Card: Billy Ripken, 1989
Billy Ripken’s 1989 Fleer rookie card became an instant cult classic after a profanity scrawled on the bat’s knob slipped into the photo taken at Fenway in September 1988. Although Ripken once claimed a teammate pranked him, he later admitted he wrote the expletive himself and simply forgot it during the shoot. Fleer halted production, re‑photographed the card, and denied any deliberate release, while the controversy sent the card’s value soaring before crashing to bargain‑bin levels. The story still haunts the former Orioles infielder, who now jokes about it whenever he appears as a youth‑baseball organizer.
Orioles’ new GM Banner says he and Elias will have ‘some uncomfortable conversations’
New Orioles GM Jared Banner, a former Cubs assistant GM with stints at the Red Sox and Mets, meets with President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias to outline their partnership. Banner will oversee internal players, coaches, development, performance and health, while Elias focuses on scouting, acquisitions and contracts. Both acknowledge they’ll have “uncomfortable conversations” to drive improvement. Banner praised Baltimore’s fan base and ownership, and pledged commitment to turning recent losing seasons into a contender. He’s already engaged with Orioles legends like Cal Ripken Jr., Craig Albernaz and Jim Palmer.
Reviewing Orioles’ top 30 prospects
With new GM Jared Banner set to steer player development, Baltimore’s farm system is exploding. MLB.com now ranks the Orioles’ prospects seventh overall, while FanGraphs places them second behind only the Dodgers. Of the top 30 prospects, 17 were drafted by Baltimore, eight arrived via trades—including key pieces from the Rutschman deal—and five are international signees. Standouts include No. 1 prospect Eric Booth Jr. (7th overall 2026 draft), pitcher Joseph Dzierwa, and power hitter Aron Estrada, who’s slated for the 40‑man roster. The article details each prospect’s background, recent performances, and how recent trades and drafts have bolstered a system once ranked 13th pre‑season.
Can the Orioles rebound like the White Sox did? | MAILBAG
The blog compares the Orioles' recent resurgence to the White Sox’s rapid turnaround after back‑to‑back 100‑loss seasons. While Baltimore bounced back from a 110‑loss 2021 to a 101‑win AL East title in 2023, the White Sox vaulted into the 2026 playoffs thanks to a strong draft (Sean Burke, Davis Martin, Noah Schultz, Grant Taylor, Sam Antonacci, Colson Montgomery), a blockbuster trade with Boston that yielded Kyle Teel, Chase Meidroth and Braden Montgomery, and acquisitions like Miguel Vargas and Munetaka Murakami. The article also addresses fan‑acknowledgment etiquette, noting that Orioles players still tip caps occasionally.
Orioles ‘wrecking crew’ hopes to hit more homers, win more games in 2027
After splurging on Pete Alonso with a five‑year, $155 million deal, the Orioles entered 2026 with a lineup Jeff Passan dubbed a "wrecking crew." Injuries and mid‑season trades derailed that promise: Jordan Westburg missed the year after Tommy John surgery, Taylor Ward produced just seven homers before his August trade, and Adley Rutschman and Jackson Holliday saw limited power. Only Alonso hit his projected 43 home runs, helping the club finish with 199 homers (tenth‑most in MLB). The article reviews the franchise’s historic swing‑for‑the‑fences philosophy, notes that power alone hasn’t guaranteed success, and looks ahead to 2027, highlighting emerging talent like Henderson, Mayo, Basallo and top prospects who could revive the long‑awaited power surge.
Did the Orioles make a mistake by trading Tyler Wells? | MAILBAG
The article examines the Orioles' August 3 trade of reliever Tyler Wells to a division rival for prospect Michael Forret. It notes the team was 54‑58 and 2½ games out of a wild‑card spot, finished 4½ games behind, and never led the majors in blown saves (they were 18th with 22). Wells posted a 1.50 ERA for Tampa Bay but missed the final two weeks with forearm tightness, casting doubt on his impact. Forret, ranked 10th in the Orioles' system, could start in 2027. The piece also touches on labor‑relation questions about small‑market success and future negotiations.
Looking back on the Orioles’ trade of Adley Rutschman
The article revisits the Orioles’ most controversial Mike Elias‑era trade: catcher Adley Rutschman’s August 3, 2026, deal to Boston. The Orioles sent Rutschman and Jake Rogers for Carlos Narváez and four top‑30 prospects (Anthony Eyanson, Enddy Azocar, Kyson Witherspoon, Harold Rivas). It outlines Rutschman’s rise—2022 rookie spark, 2023 All‑Star/Silver Slugger, 2024 All‑Star start—followed by injury‑plagued declines in 2024‑26, prompting the trade before free agency. In Boston, Rutschman hit .222 with five homers before another stint on the IL, while the Orioles now rely on Narváez, Sam Basallo and Yohel Pozo amid roster uncertainty. The piece weighs the trade’s short‑term fallout and long‑term evaluation.
Orioles infield coach Miguel Cairo on Gunnar Henderson: ‘I want to have 26 guys like that’
Orioles infield coach Miguel Cairo praises shortstop Gunnar Henderson as an “elite” player, saying he wants “26 guys like that.” Speaking at Yankee Stadium before a rain‑out on Sept. 27, Cairo highlighted Henderson’s work ethic, defensive instincts and winner’s mindset. He also noted the development of Coby Mayo at third base, Jackson Holliday’s rapid improvement after wrist surgeries, and Pete Alonso’s athletic gains at first. Cairo, a former 17‑year MLB player and interim manager for the Nationals, credited the team’s defensive progress and first‑year manager Craig Albernaz for overcoming early‑season injuries.
For starters, the Orioles need substantial improvement
The Orioles finished 79-82, ranking 17th in both win‑loss record and starter ERA (4.24) as the Rays and Brewers clash in the World Series. Their rotation allowed the second‑most hits (874) and issued the fifth‑most walks (321), while posting middle‑of‑the‑pack strikeout (760) and homer (112) numbers. Trevor Rogers slumped from a 1.81 ERA in 2025 to 4.03 this year and may receive a $23.15 million qualifying offer. Kyle Bradish, after a $90 million extension, ended the season 7‑14 with a 3.93 ERA and a sports‑hernia surgery. Shane Baz, despite a 6‑15 record, posted a 4.11 ERA in 31 starts with poor run support. Young improved dramatically, going 9‑6 with a 3.24 ERA. Veteran Chris Bassitt returned post‑back surgery with a 5‑1 run, but will likely miss 2027. With only eight true starters, Baltimore is eyeing free‑agent veterans and promoting prospects like Trey Gibson and Luis De León for 2027.
Should Orioles give Mountcastle a try in the outfield? | MAILBAG
The blog weighs Baltimore’s $7.5 million 2027 option on first‑baseman Ryan Mountcastle. Though he’s hit .250+ each season, his recent playing time has been limited—only eight games this year and none in the outfield since 2021—making a pricey outfield experiment risky. The author expects the Orioles to decline the option, possibly renegotiate a lower deal, and look elsewhere for left‑field help. The piece also clarifies the Rule 5 draft fallout from the lockout, noting unprotected players would simply stay in their organizations and minor‑leaguers remain unaffected. Readers get a clear view of Mountcastle’s future and the draft’s uncertainties.
Questions and answers with Orioles pitching prospect Patrick Reilly
Baltimore acquired right‑hander Patrick Reilly from Pittsburgh on July 30, 2024. After three Double‑A starts in 2025 he underwent Tommy John surgery, returned in June 2026, and posted a 0‑3 record with a 3.63 ERA (55 K, 11 BB in 39⅔ IP) across Double‑A and High‑A. To make up lost time the Orioles sent him to the Arizona Fall League, where he earned Pitcher of the Week and has dominated with a 1‑run, 13‑K, 2‑BB line over seven innings for Peoria. Reilly credits mound‑position tweaks and a fastball‑heavy mix (fastball, sweeper, gyro‑slider) for his success and discusses his rehab mindset. His next AFL start is Thursday.
Will Orioles’ new GM make early moves? | MAILBAG
The article addresses fan questions about the Orioles' new GM, Jarred Banner, and his likely activity before the December 1 lockout. It predicts Banner will be involved in trades and signings, but veteran VP Mike Elias will have the final say. It also explains MLB’s playoff seeding, clarifying why the top-seeded Rays faced the Yankees and why the Guardians played the White Sox. Readers get insight into the Orioles’ front‑office dynamics and the league’s postseason format.
Oriole fans have Rays’ rooting interest in World Series
As the Orioles' season ends, many Baltimore fans are shifting their allegiance to the Tampa Bay Rays for the World Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, set to begin Friday. The Rays feature four recent Orioles—closer Bryan Baker (41 saves, dominant postseason performance), pitcher Tyler Wells (3-0, 1.50 ERA), infielder Jorge Mateo, and outfielder Cedric Mullins—plus former manager Brandon Hyde as senior advisor. The Brewers also carry former O's talent, including Joey Ortiz, Gary Sánchez and left‑hander DL Hall. With these familiar faces, Orioles fans find a new team to rally behind in October’s championship showdown.
Bird Tapes Photo Album: Baltimore’s Blonde Broomgirl
During the Orioles' golden era at Memorial Stadium, 11‑year‑old Linda Warehime became the beloved “broom girl,” sweeping dust from the bases from 1968 to 1974. Daughter of a Baltimore police lieutenant, she charmed fans with her blond hair, playful antics—like swatting third‑base coaches—and even caught the eye of Pirates coach Frank Oceak during Game 2 of the 1971 World Series. Her role earned her a spot in Sports Illustrated and made her MLB’s first female ballgirl. A newly shared Bird Tapes photo captures Linda on the field, evoking the intimate, family‑like atmosphere of late‑60s/early‑70s Oriole baseball.
New GM Banner draws rave reviews: ‘The Orioles made a tremendous hire’
The Baltimore Orioles announce 40‑year‑old Jared Banner as their new general manager, a move praised by former Red Sox president Dave Dombrowski and former Pirates GM Theo Cherington. Banner brings 18 years of MLB experience, including stints with Boston, New York, and Chicago, and was part of three Red Sox World Series titles (2007, 2013, 2018). He will oversee player development, coaching, and performance while collaborating with President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias on strategy and talent acquisition. The hire follows a recent decline for the Orioles, who posted 75‑87 in 2025 and 79‑82 in 2026 after an AL East title in 2023.
Would a No. 1 starter have turned around Orioles’ season? | MAILBAG
The blog asks whether signing a top free‑agent arm—Dylan Cease, Ranger Suárez or Framber Valdez—could have saved the Orioles’ 2026 season. The answer argues that none would have dramatically changed the outcome; even Cease’s stellar year wouldn’t have altered the rotation’s makeup, and the team’s main issues were weak offense and a league‑worst 88 unearned runs. A second reader query about a potential 2027 lockout explains that a lost season would simply shift contract years—Pete Alonso’s five‑year deal would lose a year, while free‑agency service time rules remain uncertain pending negotiations. The post invites more Orioles questions via email.
Orioles hire Jared Banner as general manager
The Baltimore Orioles announce Jared Banner as their new general manager, joining president of baseball operations Mike Elias on October 19, 2026. Banner, 40, arrives from the Chicago Cubs, where he served as assistant GM after stints with the Red Sox and Mets in player development roles. He will oversee day‑to‑day baseball operations, player development, coaching and performance, while collaborating with Elias on strategy and talent acquisition. Elias, who was promoted after the 2024 season, praises Banner’s multi‑department success as the team looks toward 2027 and beyond.
Orioles have intriguing outfield prospects, but need outside help for 2027
The Orioles’ 2026 outfield was a disappointment, lacking a 15‑HR, 60‑RBI, .230‑plus hitter. After trading Taylor Ward—who posted a .246 average with seven homers before slipping to .125 with Seattle—the team is left with modest production from Colton Cowser (13 HR, .226 average, strong defense), Dylan Beavers (.228, nine HR), and Tyler O’Neill (10 HR, .216). Leody Taveras led the group with 56 RBIs but hit only .219 and may miss arbitration. Prospects like Blaze Alexander could see more time, while Heston Kjerstad’s future is uncertain after limited action and no remaining options. Baltimore will need outside help and roster moves to improve the outfield for 2027.
Would Orioles trade Henderson, Holliday or Westburg? | MAILBAG
Rich answers fan questions about the Orioles' offseason plans, saying a recent trade of Adley Rutschman doesn’t mean the club will move top prospects like Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday or Jordan Westburg. He doubts any will be dealt now—Westburg missed 2026 with Tommy John surgery, Holliday is set for a healthier 2027, and the team likely keeps Henderson as they chase contention. Rich also confirms MLB tracks all umpires’ ball‑strike accuracy, using the data for postseason assignments rather than sending low‑rated umpires back to remedial school.
Reviewing the surprising Orioles’ bullpen of 2026
The Orioles’ disappointing season can be attributed to poor offensive and defensive performances by key players, and injuries to some others. It can’t be attributed to the bullpen. Perhaps the most surprising stat about Oriole relievers is that they pitched the fourth-fewest innings in baseball, 573. Only the Dodgers, Phillies and Mariners used the bullpen […]
Calling the Pen: Influencing the next generation of Oriole fans
The day after the Orioles had officially been eliminated from postseason play, Pete Alonso was still playing as though he hadn’t gotten the memo. In what turned out to be their final day of the 2026 season, the 31-year-old first baseman hit two more home runs in Game 1 of a doubleheader against the Yankees. […]
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