The Baltimore Orioles struggled in 2025 following a strong 2024 campaign. The ball club simply never found a rhythm and ultimately missed the postseason, falling short of expectations in the process. Following an offseason that saw the O's add Pete Alonso, Chris Bassitt, Taylor Ward and Shane Baz, expectations are high once again for 2026.
The American League East is quite talented. There are a number of teams throughout the entire AL who could make serious postseason runs. Baltimore is among those ball clubs, though.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMLB insider Jon Morosi recently appeared on MLB Network and suggested that the Orioles' starting rotation could be a strength in 2026 -- something that hasn't always been the case for the team. The lineup has been impressive for the most part in recent years, however.
Morosi has confidence in the 2026 O's.
"They might have the biggest year-over-year win increase of any team in the American League," Morosi said.
The Orioles finished in last place in the AL East last year with a 75-87 record. Morosi expects the ball club to take a massive step forward in 2026.
Orioles' 2026 OutlookBaltimore's lineup is going to produce. The Alonso addition instantly adds more power to the squad. Gunnar Henderson is a star. Adley Rutschman may bounce back if he can stay healthy. Top prospect Samuel Basallo features an extremely bright future.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFor the Orioles, their pitching will be the key to success. A balanced roster goes a long way, and if the pitching production is respectable, the lineup will handle the rest.
Trevor Rogers pitched well last season and could be on the verge of an All-Star 2026 campaign. The Baz and Bassitt additions give the team two reliable starters alongside Rogers. Kyle Bradish, Zach Eflin and Dean Kremer are among the other starting rotation candidates.
In the bullpen, Ryan Helsley is set to lead the way as the closer. Meanwhile, pitchers such as Andrew Kittredge and Keegan Akin will look to make positive impacts.
Overall, the Orioles feature the potential to have a balanced attack. With that said, they still need to prove it on the field. Morosi is clearly a believer in the squad, and the Orioles feel confident about their chances. Nevertheless, the American League has a number of ball clubs ready to compete.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAt the very least, the O's should be able to at least make a Wild Card run barring unforeseen circumstances. Winning the division is the regular season goal, though. Of course, earning a World Series victory is the overall goal.
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