Orioles fans, brace yourselves! The 2026 baseball season is almost upon us, and with it, a host of questions and uncertainties. But before we dive into the upcoming season, let's take a moment to reflect on the recent news and developments that have kept us on the edge of our seats. But here's where it gets controversial...
Orioles News: A Season of Uncertainty
After a flurry of activity in the early offseason, the Orioles have come to a standstill. It's frustrating to see, especially for those who believe the team still needs changes to be successful this season. But as each day passes, we get one day closer to the 2026 baseball season, whether the Orioles make a move or not.
The Orioles pitchers and catchers report on February 11th, and the first full-squad workout is scheduled for February 16th. The team's first Grapefruit League game is on the 20th against the Yankees. There will be a month of spring games, followed by the World Baseball Classic from March 5-17. Finally, the Orioles will host Opening Day on Thursday, March 26th.
But speaking of the WBC, there's a potential bombshell in the works. News broke over the weekend that Puerto Rico may pull out of the tournament due to insurance issues. A league-approved insurer would cover a player's salary if he is hurt in the WBC, but the insurer is declining to insure at least eight players scheduled to play for Puerto Rico, including superstar Francisco Lindor.
If Team Puerto Rico has to pull out, it would be a real blow to the tournament. They are one of the powerhouse teams in the tournament, and the first round is being hosted in San Juan. Talk about awkward! I'm actually traveling to Puerto Rico to attend two WBC games, but I don't have tickets to Puerto Rico's games because they sold out too quickly.
In other Orioles news, there have been a pair of signings. Austin Hays signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Chicago White Sox, with a mutual option for 2027. And the Dodgers agreed to a minor league deal with pitcher Cole Irvin, who spent 2025 in Korea with the Doosan Bears. He made 28 starts with a 4.48 ERA.
Questions for the 2026 Season
As we approach the 2026 season, there are many questions that remain unanswered. For instance, who will hit the most home runs? I'm going to take a stab and say Pete Alonso. But what about the Orioles' utility role? While the rest of Birdland waits to see if the Orioles sign Framber Valdez, Rich Dubroff is ready to talk utility guys.
More Orioles Played Through Injuries Last Year
Did you know that more Orioles played through injuries last year than we realized? Jon Meoli took a look at how this year could be different when it comes to injury. It's a thought-provoking read that invites discussion and debate.
Birthdays and History
Today is a special day for Orioles fans, as we celebrate the birthdays of two Orioles Hall of Famers: Don Buford and Melvin Mora. Buford played for the Orioles from 1968-1972, excelling in the postseason with an .851 OPS over 22 games. Mora, on the other hand, was a late bloomer who didn't make his major league debut until age 27. He came to the Orioles in 2000 and spent a decade with the team, becoming a bright spot on a bad baseball team.
Other former Orioles born on this day in history include Travis Snider, Scott Erickson, Pat Clements, and Paul Kilgus. And on this day in 2005, the Orioles trade for Sammy Sosa was made official, sending Jerry Hairston, Jr. to the Cubs for Sosa. It was a painful season for the team, but it's all part of the Orioles' rich history.
In 2009, the Orioles sent cash to the Cubs for Rich Hill, who had a 7.80 ERA in 14 games that year at age 29. He went on to pitch for 16 more seasons, appearing in two games with the Royals last season at age 45. And in 2021, the Orioles traded Alex Cobb to the Angels for Jahmai Jones. Cobb had 2.5 disappointing seasons with the Orioles, but bounced back for a bit with the Angels and later the Giants.
So, as we approach the 2026 season, let's keep these questions and discussions in mind. What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with my takes? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
