New Faces Aim to Lift Struggling Orioles Lineup
The Baltimore Orioles are hoping a mix of veteran talent and young potential can help revive their stagnant offense in 2026. After missing the playoffs in a disappointing 2025 campaign, the team has brought in several new faces to complement their core of rising stars.
Headlining the offseason additions is Albert Pujols, the future Hall of Famer who is set to take over as the Orioles' manager. Pujols, who spent the bulk of his storied playing career with the Los Angeles Angels, is tasked with unlocking the potential of young stars like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman. The Orioles are banking on Pujols' leadership and experience to help turn things around for the struggling duo.
Outfield Overhaul Aims to Boost Production
In addition to the Pujols hiring, the Orioles have also been active in bolstering their outfield. They've reportedly pursued free agents like Adam Frazier and Paul Goldschmidt, both of whom have enjoyed success at Angel Stadium, the Orioles' home ballpark.
The team is also hoping for bounce-back seasons from their own homegrown talents, including Ryan Mountcastle and Austin Hays. Mountcastle, once considered a core piece of the Orioles' future, struggled mightily in 2025 and will look to regain his form. Hays, a fan favorite, could return to Baltimore after testing the free agent market.
Pitching Reinforcements Needed After Injury Woes
On the mound, the Orioles will look to address the rotation depth that was decimated by injuries in 2025. Names like Hunter Greene and Trevor Rogers have been linked to the team, as they seek to add established arms to complement their promising young pitchers like Nestor German and Dean Kremer.
The bullpen will also be an area of focus, with the Orioles needing to replace the production of the injured Félix Bautista. Newcomers like Grant Wolfram and Kade Strowd could earn opportunities to contribute in high-leverage roles.
TL;DR
- The Orioles have brought in veteran slugger Albert Pujols as their new manager, tasked with reviving the careers of Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman.
- The team has targeted outfield reinforcements in free agency, including Adam Frazier and Paul Goldschmidt, while also hoping for bounce-back seasons from Ryan Mountcastle and Austin Hays.
- Baltimore will look to bolster their pitching staff, both in the rotation and bullpen, after suffering from significant injuries in 2025.
- The Orioles are hoping a mix of new faces and young talent can help them return to the playoffs in 2026.