Orioles Sign Pitcher Chris Bassitt, Citing Pete Alonso as Key Factor

Bassitt says Alonso's signing was a major reason he chose Baltimore in free agency

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Baltimore Orioles pitcher Chris Bassitt revealed that the team's signing of first baseman Pete Alonso was a key factor in his decision to join the Orioles in free agency. Bassitt, who recently signed a one-year deal with Baltimore, noted that the Orioles were transparent about their pitching priorities and reached out to him early in the offseason.

Why it matters

Bassitt's comments highlight the Orioles' aggressive offseason moves as they look to reshape the team and become a destination for veteran players seeking to win. The addition of Alonso, a perennial All-Star, was seen as a major coup for the franchise, and Bassitt's decision to sign with Baltimore further validates the team's win-now approach.

The details

Bassitt, a 36-year-old right-hander, signed a one-year deal with the Orioles after logging 170.1 innings and reaching the World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025. He noted that the Orioles' front office was transparent about their pitching priorities and reached out to him early in the offseason. Bassitt also cited Alonso's signing as a major factor in his decision to join the team, as he seeks another chance to reach the World Series.

  • Bassitt signed a one-year deal with the Orioles earlier this week.
  • Bassitt spoke at the Orioles' Spring Training facility in Sarasota, Florida on the first official day of media availability.

The players

Chris Bassitt

A 36-year-old right-handed pitcher who recently signed a one-year deal with the Baltimore Orioles after reaching the World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025.

Pete Alonso

A perennial All-Star first baseman who the Orioles signed earlier this offseason, a move that Bassitt cited as a major factor in his decision to join the team.

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What they’re saying

“Chris Bassitt says the Orioles reached out early in the offseason and were transparent that there were a couple of starters higher on their priority list. He chose Baltimore for the chance to get back to the World Series and the Pete Alonso signing was a major factor.”

— Chris Bassitt, Pitcher (The Baltimore Sun)

The takeaway

Bassitt's decision to sign with the Orioles highlights the team's aggressive offseason strategy and their ability to attract veteran talent seeking to win. The addition of Alonso, coupled with Bassitt's comments, suggests the Orioles are positioning themselves as a destination for players looking to compete for a championship.