Feb 27, 2025; Sarasota, Florida, USA; Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tyler O'Neill (9) hits a 3-run home run during the second inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
Question: Since you’re there with the team, I was wondering what the eye test tells you about players’ conditioning coming into camp. Anyone look like they’ve bulked up or looking leaner since the end of last season? From: Rick Staley
Answer: Rick, I think Jackson Holliday has certainly bulked up since the end of last season, and Samuel Basallo looks much bigger and more mature. Of the newcomers, you have to be impressed by Tyler O’Neill, who is always in great shape.
Question: If 2025 is considered Tomoyuki Sugano’s rookie year in MLB, will the Orioles have arbitration rights with him if he chooses to play in MLB in 2026? In, other words, will he have to a specified number of years before he can enter free agency? From: Mitch
Answer: Mitch, Sugano signed a one-year contract for this season, and he’s a free agent after the season.
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.
BALTIMORE—The Orioles began Sunday just 1 ½ games out of the final wild-card spot, and…
BALTIMORE—Orioles first base coach Jason Bourgeois played for six teams in his eight-year major league…
BALTIMORE—After a thrilling win on Friday night moved the Orioles to within two games of…
BALTIMORE—Manager Craig Albernaz will miss starting pitcher Dean Kremer, who was traded by the Orioles…
BALTIMORE—Before Friday night’s game, president of baseball operations Mike Elias emphasized how important the three-game…