Question: Why did the Orioles’ High-A affiliation team switch from Aberdeen to Frederick? From: Jacob P
Answer: Jacob, attendance in Aberdeen had fallen sharply in recent years. In 2025, after several years of steady decline, the IronBirds averaged only 1,628 fans per game, second lowest in the South Atlantic League.
When Aberdeen was a short-season team, it drew much better, but the move to a full-season team didn’t work out well.
Like Aberdeen, Frederick is also close to Baltimore and has a vital fan base. It also made some improvements to the stadium, and fans seem excited about having the Keys back in affiliated ball, especially with so many top prospects there.
Question: What is the team ERA when each catcher is behind the plate? I think it is higher for Samuel Basallo than Adley Rutschman. From: Webster, Winter Park, Florida
Answer: Webster, you are incorrect. When Basallo is catching, the Orioles’ ERA is 3.84. When Rutschman is catching, it’s 4.68. Their ERA when Sam Huff caught in three games was 5.40.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.
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