The Baltimore Orioles enter 2026 at a fascinating crossroads. This is no longer a young team simply trying to prove it belongs — it’s a roster that expects to contend. The front office has been aggressive, the farm system continues to feed impact talent, and the window to win now is wide open.
With that in mind, here’s my comprehensive outlook for the 2026 Orioles season — blending roster analysis, league context, and bold but grounded predictions for how this year unfolds.
1. The Orioles aren’t finished making moves
Even with a strong offseason already in place, I don’t believe the roster is finalized. The Orioles still have financial flexibility and prospect capital that can be used to address remaining needs. Whether it’s another starter or a high-leverage bullpen arm, I expect at least one more meaningful addition before Opening Day.
2. A left-handed reliever will be added
The bullpen has improved, but balance still matters in October. A dependable left-handed reliever would give Brandon Hyde more matchup flexibility late in games. This is the kind of under-the-radar move that doesn’t dominate headlines but can swing close postseason contests.
3. Baltimore will not carry three first basemen
With Pete Alonso now anchoring first base, roster redundancy becomes unnecessary. The Orioles will prioritize versatility and defensive flexibility over positional overlap. One of the remaining first-base options will either be moved or relegated to a lesser role.
4. Anthony Nunez turns heads in Spring Training
Every spring brings a surprise, and Nunez has the tools to be that player. His raw ability has always been intriguing, but 2026 feels like the year things click. A strong camp could force the Orioles into tough roster decisions.
5. Tyler O’Neill ready to go on Opening Day
At this point, it almost feels inevitable. O’Neill has built a reputation for showing up big early, and Camden Yards suits his power profile well. Beyond Opening Day theatrics, he’s positioned for a productive season if health cooperates. Injuries derailed his recent campaigns, but the underlying metrics still suggest impact potential. A full, healthy season allows his power and run production to shine through. He won’t carry the lineup, but he won’t disappear either.
6. Kyle Bradish gets the Opening Day start
Bradish has earned the respect of the clubhouse and coaching staff. Even with rotation additions, he remains the most trusted arm when the lights are brightest. Giving him Opening Day is as much about leadership as it is performance.
7. Gunnar Henderson reclaims team MVP status
After a slight step back statistically last season, Henderson is primed for a rebound. His plate discipline, power, and defensive value remain elite. A fully healthy Henderson is still the heartbeat of this franchise.
8. Pete Alonso hits 50 home runs
Few ballparks reward pull-side power like Camden Yards does now. Alonso’s presence transforms the lineup and gives pitchers no room for error. If he stays healthy, 50 homers is aggressive — but not unrealistic.
9. The Orioles lead the American League in home runs
This lineup is built to punish mistakes. From Henderson and Alonso to O’Neill, Rutschman, and Westburg, power comes from multiple spots. It’s no longer a one-dimensional offense — it’s relentless.
10. Jackson Holliday makes his first All-Star team
Holliday’s development curve continues upward. His maturity at the plate and defensive reliability make him a manager’s dream. 2026 feels like the year he officially arrives on the national stage.
11. Adley Rutschman returns to All-Star form
Last season’s injuries muted his impact, but the skill set never disappeared. When healthy, Rutschman remains one of baseball’s most complete catchers. Expect improved power numbers and elite on-base production.
12. Henderson and Alonso join Rutschman at the All-Star Game
Multiple All-Stars are the hallmark of a contender. Henderson’s all-around value and Alonso’s raw power will be impossible to ignore. Baltimore sending multiple representatives feels inevitable.
13. The Orioles buy at the trade deadline
This team will not sit idle if it’s in contention. Whether it’s bullpen help or rotation depth, the front office has shown it’s willing to strike. Expect a deadline move designed for October, not just August.
14. Ryan Helsley records around 35 saves
Helsley brings stability the bullpen has lacked. His velocity, command, and experience make him a true ninth-inning weapon. If the Orioles are winning games, he’ll be finishing plenty of them.
15. The starting rotation becomes a team strength
Depth and upside finally align in this rotation. With Bradish, Baz, and reliable veteran innings, Baltimore no longer needs to scramble nightly. Consistency from the rotation changes the entire team dynamic. Health has always been the question, not talent. If Baz stays on the mound, his stuff plays at an elite level. A breakout season would dramatically raise Baltimore’s postseason ceiling.
16. Jordan Westburg sets a career high in games played
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Availability is the final hurdle for Westburg. His versatility and steady offensive growth make him invaluable. A full season allows him to solidify his role as an everyday contributor.
17. Tyler Wells transitions more into a bullpen role
Wells’ stuff plays up in shorter stints. The bullpen allows him to attack hitters more aggressively without pacing himself. This shift could extend his career and maximize his effectiveness.
18. Samuel Basallo wins AL Rookie of the Year
Basallo’s upside is enormous. His bat speed, power, and presence behind the plate make him a rare talent. If he gets enough opportunities, he has the star power to run away with the award.
19. Dylan Beavers receives Rookie of the Year votes
Beavers might not win, but his impact will be felt. He offers athleticism, defense, and timely offense. Voters will notice if he contributes meaningfully on a playoff team.
20. Craig Albernaz wins AL Manager of the Year
Managing expectations is harder than managing rebuilding teams. Albernaz’s ability to balance veterans, youth, and clubhouse chemistry will stand out. Success in the AL East would put him squarely in the conversation.
21. The Orioles return to the postseason
This roster is built for 162 games. Depth, power, and pitching stability give Baltimore staying power. Missing October would be a major disappointment — and I don’t see it happening. The division is competitive, but the Orioles are deeper than their rivals. Improved pitching and lineup balance give them the edge. It won’t be easy, but it’s absolutely attainable. The postseason drought ends here. Experience, maturity, and roster construction all point toward a breakthrough. This team is ready for the moment. As good as this team is, championships are brutal to win. Baltimore gets close, learns hard lessons, and comes back hungrier. The window isn’t closing — it’s just getting started.
Final Thought
The 2026 Orioles aren’t chasing respect anymore — they expect it. This season represents another major step toward sustained excellence, and while the ultimate prize may still be just out of reach, the foundation is rock solid. Baltimore baseball is officially in its golden era again.
