Orioles Kick Off Spring Training with Renewed Energy

New manager Craig Albernaz emphasizes unity and personal development as the team prepares for the season

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:09pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting baseball players in motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives capturing the energy and intensity of the sport.The Orioles' spring training session showcases the team's dynamic energy and commitment to growth through a cubist lens.Sarasota Today

The Baltimore Orioles held their first full-squad workout of spring training in Sarasota, Florida, with new manager Craig Albernaz leading the charge. Albernaz stressed the importance of creating a sense of unity and support within the team, encouraging players to focus on personal development and giving their best effort every day. The team practiced various drills, including baserunning, ground balls, and live batting practice, with standout performances from pitchers Zach Eflin, Dean Kremer, and Shane Baz, as well as hitters Pete Alonso and Ryan Mountcastle.

Why it matters

The Orioles are looking to build on their recent successes and make a strong push for the playoffs this season. Albernaz's emphasis on team unity and individual growth could be key factors in the team's development and performance throughout the year.

The details

During the full-squad workout, Albernaz highlighted the significance of the team's daily grind and personal development, urging players to focus on the present and give their best effort every day. The team practiced various drills, including baserunning, ground balls, and live batting practice. Standout performers included pitchers Zach Eflin, Dean Kremer, and Shane Baz, as well as hitters Pete Alonso and Ryan Mountcastle. Eflin, who is returning from surgery, expressed his excitement and gratitude for being able to play the game he loves again.

  • The Orioles' first full-squad workout took place in Sarasota, Florida.
  • The team practiced various drills, including baserunning, ground balls, and live batting practice.

The players

David Rubenstein

The Orioles' control owner.

Michael Arougheti

The Orioles' minority owner.

Craig Albernaz

The Orioles' new manager, who emphasized the importance of creating a sense of unity and support within the team.

Zach Eflin

An Orioles pitcher who is returning from surgery and expressed his excitement and gratitude for being able to play the game he loves again.

Dean Kremer

An Orioles pitcher who impressed with his pitching skills during the live batting practice session.

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What they’re saying

“It's about creating a sense of unity and support. The players should feel like the organization is their biggest cheerleader, not an obstacle.”

— Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager

“I'm thrilled with my progress. The surgery has changed my life, on and off the field. It's a blessing to be able to do the things I love again and be a better dad to my kids.”

— Zach Eflin, Orioles Pitcher

What’s next

The Orioles will continue their spring training preparations, with more drills, live batting practice, and exhibition games leading up to the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Orioles' renewed focus on team unity and personal development under new manager Craig Albernaz could be a key factor in the team's success this season. The team's strong pitching and hitting performances during the first full-squad workout suggest they are well on their way to a promising campaign.