Bassitt joins Orioles, eyes World Series title

Veteran pitcher signs one-year, $18.5 million deal with Baltimore

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Chris Bassitt, a 37-year-old right-hander, has signed a one-year, $18.5 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles. Bassitt, who came close to winning his first World Series championship with the Toronto Blue Jays last season, is motivated to win a title and believes the Orioles have the talent to do so. He cited the team's roster upgrades, including the additions of Pete Alonso, Zach Eflin, and others, as reasons for his decision to join Baltimore.

Why it matters

The Orioles are coming off a 75-87 season and a last-place finish in the AL East, but they have been aggressive this offseason in upgrading their roster. Bassitt's signing is the latest move, and his veteran presence and championship aspirations could help the team make a push for the playoffs.

The details

Bassitt, who has played 11 seasons in the majors, said the Orioles' talent and his desire to win a World Series were the main reasons he chose to sign with the team. He communicated with Alonso and Eflin during the free-agent process, and they helped influence his decision. Bassitt is ready to take on a leadership role and help the team in any way he can, whether that's supporting the rotation, the bullpen, or the overall team dynamic.

  • Bassitt's Blue Jays lost in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series on November 1, 2025.
  • Bassitt signed his one-year, $18.5 million contract with the Orioles on February 14, 2026.

The players

Chris Bassitt

A 37-year-old right-handed pitcher who has played 11 seasons in the majors and is seeking his first World Series championship.

Pete Alonso

The Orioles' first baseman, who was Bassitt's teammate with the Mets in 2022.

Zach Eflin

A right-handed pitcher for the Orioles, who has developed a close friendship with Bassitt off the field in recent years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He texted me and he said, 'Let's go win a title,' and I was like, 'Dude, you're going to love it here. The guys are incredible.'”

— Zach Eflin, Orioles pitcher (mlb.com)

“He's a beauty. Chris is one of my all-time favorites. Big personality. Just having that veteran presence is not just good for the pitching staff, but good for the whole clubhouse. He brings energy every day. He's a bulldog out there, and I think he's going to be a huge addition for us, not just in the regular season, but especially when we make that playoff stretch and that playoff run.”

— Pete Alonso (mlb.com)

What’s next

The Orioles will look to integrate Bassitt into their rotation and clubhouse as they aim to make a playoff push in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Bassitt's signing with the Orioles demonstrates the team's commitment to building a championship-caliber roster, and his veteran leadership and championship aspirations could be a key factor in the team's success in the upcoming season.