As the Baltimore Orioles reflect on a challenging 2025 season, several significant player updates emerge that could shape the team's future. With a focus on injuries, arbitration candidates, and offseason strategies, the organization faces important decisions as it looks to rebound.
Injury Updates
The Orioles' 2025 campaign was marred by injuries, notably impacting players like Jordan Westburg. After dealing with multiple stints on the injured list, Westburg struggled to regain his form. In his final 12 games, he hit just .200 with a disappointing OPS of .585. Despite these challenges, Westburg managed to connect for two home runs during the last series against the Yankees, showcasing his potential even in limited appearances.
In another concerning development, right-hander Albert Suárez is scheduled for an MRI after suffering a season-ending elbow injury. This injury raises concerns about the need for potential surgery, significantly impacting the team's pitching depth moving forward. Suárez had been a valuable asset in 2024, contributing a 3.70 ERA across 32 appearances.
Arbitration Candidates
Looking ahead, the Orioles have 14 players eligible for arbitration, one of the largest groups in Major League Baseball. Among them is catcher Alex Jackson, who had a mixed season. Despite showing promise, Jackson struggled against offspeed pitches, which could affect his chances of securing a spot on the roster next season. The presence of Samuel Basallo and Adley Rutschman complicates Jackson's future with the team, as the Orioles may opt to streamline their catching options.
Yennier Cano, an All-Star last season, also enters arbitration discussions, but his performance dipped in 2025 with an ERA of 5.12. The team's decisions regarding these players will be crucial as they aim to strengthen their roster for the next season.
Managerial Considerations
As the Orioles evaluate their roster, discussions about the next manager are heating up. Candidates range from first-time skippers like Ryan Flaherty to more experienced options. The new manager will play a pivotal role in addressing the team's needs, particularly in the bullpen, where the Orioles are expected to seek multiple reinforcements.
As the offseason approaches, the Orioles' front office, led by Mike Elias, faces a critical period filled with decisions that will shape the team's trajectory. Optimism remains tempered, as fans and analysts alike wonder if this season was merely a bump in the road or indicative of a longer-term challenge for the franchise.
TL;DR
- Jordan Westburg's 2025 season was hampered by injuries, limiting his performance.
- Albert Suárez is undergoing an MRI for a season-ending elbow injury, raising surgery concerns.
- The Orioles have 14 arbitration-eligible players, complicating roster decisions.
- The search for a new manager is underway as the team looks to improve for the 2026 season.