Mansolino thinks core players will rebound in ’26; Orioles claim right-hander Dom Hamel

BALTIMORE—Orioles interim manager Tony Mansolino is convinced the team’s young core players will have betters seasons in 2026. He also recognizes that there are areas that need to be strengthened.

The core players Mansolino is referring to are Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, Jordan Westburg, Jackson Holliday and Colton Cowser.

“It’s the obvious right now,” Mansolino said. “You need more front-line pitching, and you need to augment the bullpen. I think those two things are probably the highest priority, but I still believe and know that while that will help immensely, it’s these young core hitters that are really going to be the ones that turn this place around.

“Same ways as the core hitters in Toronto turned around their season and took them from last to first this season … Having a down year in your first years isn’t abnormal.

“I think it’s a really normal thing. There’s a saying called a sophomore slump in all sports. It’s a real thing, and I don’t think it always happens your sophomore year, but first few years, but now it’s time for those guys to figure it out.”

Orioles acquire Hamel: The Orioles claimed right-hander Dom Hamel off waivers from the New York Mets. He was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk.

Hamel, a 26-year-old right-hander who was the Mets’ third-round pick in 2021, made his major league debut with New York on Wednesday and threw a scoreless inning, allowing three hits. He hit a batter and was quickly designated for assignment.

The Orioles now have 40 players on their 40-man roster.

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