Orioles Add Veteran Pitcher Chris Bassitt to Improved Rotation

The Baltimore Orioles have reached a one-year, $18.5 million deal with the right-handed pitcher, per a source.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Baltimore Orioles have added veteran right-handed pitcher Chris Bassitt to their improved starting rotation, according to a source. Bassitt has agreed to a one-year, $18.5 million contract with the team.

Why it matters

The Orioles are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and make a push for the playoffs in 2026. Adding an experienced starter like Bassitt to their rotation should bolster their pitching staff and give them a better chance of competing in the tough American League East division.

The details

Bassitt, 34, is coming off a solid 2025 season where he went 13-8 with a 3.71 ERA for the Toronto Blue Jays. He has been a reliable starter over the past several seasons, making at least 25 starts in each of the last four years. The Orioles are hoping Bassitt can provide veteran leadership and stability to their rotation as they aim to return to the postseason.

  • Bassitt agreed to the one-year, $18.5 million contract with the Orioles on February 11, 2026.

The players

Chris Bassitt

A 34-year-old right-handed pitcher who has been a reliable starter in Major League Baseball over the past several seasons.

Baltimore Orioles

A professional baseball team that plays in the American League East division of Major League Baseball.

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What’s next

The Orioles will look to officially introduce Bassitt as their new starting pitcher in the coming days.

The takeaway

The addition of Chris Bassitt to the Orioles' rotation is a significant move as the team aims to build on its promising 2025 season and compete for a playoff spot in 2026.