Feb 18, 2026; Sarasota, FL, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Zach Eflin (24) poses for media day. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images
SARASOTA—The moving trucks have loaded up the equipment. Cars are being shipped to Baltimore, and there are some empty spaces in the clubhouse. Opening Day is a week away, and the Orioles will be leaving Sarasota for home after Saturday’s game.
There are still moves to be made, so let’s take a final look at the Orioles’ projected lineup.
Of course, moves can be made before the March 26th opener.
Starting pitchers (5): Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, Dean Kremer
Under consideration: Zach Eflin
Rogers will start Thursday night against Pittsburgh in the evening half of the Orioles’ split-squad, while Eflin, whose second start was truncated because of rain, hasn’t completed three innings in a game. Eflin, who had back surgery last August, did throw in the Orioles’ new indoor facility after rain ended his start last Sunday night. He’s set to start against the New York Yankees in Tampa on Friday.
Relievers (8): Keegan Akin, Yennier Cano, Dietrich Enns, Rico Garcia, Ryan Helsley, Yaramil Hiraldo, Tyler Wells, Grant Wolfram,
Under consideration: Jackson Kowar, Albert Suárez,
The final roster spot seems to be between Hiraldo, Kowar and Suárez. Kowar, who doesn’t have an option remaining, is scheduled to pitch on Thursday night. Suárez can opt out of his contract if he isn’t added to the 40-man roster in advance of Opening Day. He has a 7.59 ERA in four appearances.
Catchers (2): Samuel Basallo, Adley Rutschman
Under consideration: Maverick Handley, Sam Huff
Basallo and Rutschman will share catching duties while Handley and Huff will be ready in case there’s an issue.
Infielders: Blaze Alexander, Pete Alonso, Gunnar Henderson, Jeremiah Jackson, Coby Mayo, Ryan Mountcastle
Under consideration: José Barrero, Thairo Estrada, Bryan Ramos, Luis Vázquez, Weston Wilson
Jeremiah Jackson has had a solid spring, and with Jackson Holliday and Jordan Westburg starting the season on the injured list, he’ll come in handy with his ability to play second and third base. Ramos has hit well and doesn’t have any options remaining.
Outfielders (5): Dylan Beavers, Colton Cowser, Tyler O’Neill, Leody Taveras, Taylor Ward
Under consideration: Heston Kjerstad, Jhonkensy Noel
Kjerstad had a strong start, but he’s slumped since. Noel has shown well this spring and can be a depth option at Triple-A Norfolk.
Call for questions: I answer Orioles questions most weekdays. Please send yours to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com
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