Orioles Reveal Opening Day Rotation

New manager Craig Albernaz sets pitching staff for 2026 season opener

Mar. 22, 2026 at 7:48pm

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The Baltimore Orioles have announced their starting rotation for the 2026 MLB season opener against the Minnesota Twins. The rotation will feature Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, and Zach Eflin, with Rogers getting the nod as the Opening Day starter. The Orioles are hoping this new-look pitching staff can help the team return to the playoffs after missing out in 2025.

Why it matters

The Orioles are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and make a playoff push in 2026. The team's new manager, Craig Albernaz, has put together a rotation he believes can lead Baltimore back to the postseason, featuring a mix of young talent and veteran experience.

The details

Albernaz revealed the Orioles' Opening Day rotation, which will be led by Trevor Rogers, followed by Kyle Bradish, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, and Zach Eflin. Rogers will get the start on Opening Day against the Minnesota Twins. The Orioles made some big offseason moves, including signing free agent slugger Pete Alonso, and are hoping this revamped pitching staff can complement their improved offense.

  • The Orioles open the 2026 season on March 26 against the Minnesota Twins.
  • Orioles prospect Jackson Holliday will not be ready for Opening Day due to a fractured hamate bone in his right hand, but could begin a rehab assignment at the start of the Triple-A season.

The players

Craig Albernaz

The new manager of the Baltimore Orioles, previously a coach with the Tampa Bay Rays, San Francisco Giants, and Cleveland Guardians.

Trevor Rogers

The Orioles' Opening Day starting pitcher, part of the team's revamped 2026 rotation.

Pete Alonso

A free agent star who the Orioles signed this offseason, expected to be a centerpiece of their improved offense in 2026.

Jackson Holliday

A top Orioles prospect who is dealing with a fractured hamate bone and will not be ready for Opening Day, but could return soon after.

Zach Eflin

The only returning starter from the Orioles' 2025 Opening Day rotation, re-signing with the team on a one-year deal.

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What’s next

The Orioles will play a spring training game against the Washington Nationals on Sunday before opening the regular season against the Minnesota Twins on March 26.

The takeaway

The Orioles are hoping their revamped pitching staff, led by new manager Craig Albernaz, can help the team return to the playoffs in 2026 after missing out the previous season. With a mix of young talent and veteran experience, Baltimore is aiming to complement its improved offense and make a push for the postseason.