Orioles' Spring Training Recap: Injuries, Additions, and Optimism

From Holliday's surgery to Bassitt's signing, the Orioles' first week of spring training has been eventful.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Orioles' spring training has been marked by injuries to key players like Jackson Holliday and Jordan Westburg, as well as the signing of veteran pitcher Chris Bassitt. Despite the setbacks, the team's clubhouse has a more spirited atmosphere with the addition of new free agents and trades. Manager Craig Albernaz has had a calm and confident start to his first week, and the team is looking to fill open infield and bullpen spots during the Grapefruit League games.

Why it matters

The Orioles' spring training is an important time to evaluate the team's roster and prepare for the upcoming season. The injuries to Holliday and Westburg, as well as the addition of Bassitt, will have a significant impact on the team's plans and performance. The upbeat atmosphere in the clubhouse suggests the Orioles are poised for a strong season, but they'll need to overcome the early challenges to be competitive in the AL East.

The details

Second baseman Jackson Holliday underwent surgery for a broken hamate bone in his right wrist and will miss the start of the season. Third baseman Jordan Westburg has a right oblique injury that will keep him out of the start of Grapefruit League games. The Orioles signed veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt to add depth to their rotation, which now includes six starters. Manager Craig Albernaz has appeared calm and confident in his first week, and the team's new additions have brought a more spirited atmosphere to the clubhouse.

  • On February 6th, Holliday broke the hamate bone in his right wrist.
  • On February 9th, Holliday underwent surgery in Los Angeles.
  • Westburg's right oblique injury will keep him out of the start of Grapefruit League games on Friday.

The players

Jackson Holliday

The Orioles' second baseman who underwent surgery for a broken hamate bone in his right wrist and will miss the start of the season.

Jordan Westburg

The Orioles' third baseman who has a right oblique injury that will keep him out of the start of Grapefruit League games.

Chris Bassitt

A veteran right-handed pitcher who the Orioles signed to add depth to their rotation.

Craig Albernaz

The Orioles' new manager, who has appeared calm and confident in his first week.

Blaze Alexander

An infielder acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks on February 5th, who will likely see increased playing time due to the injuries to Holliday and Westburg.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.