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Orioles Divide and Conquer in Spring Training Split Squad Action
Unique lineup decisions and broadcasting challenges highlight the Orioles' March 7 exhibition games
Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:45am
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A cubist interpretation of the Orioles' split squad action captures the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of their spring training exhibition games.Sarasota TodayThe Baltimore Orioles faced an unusual spring training scenario on March 7th, fielding two separate teams simultaneously in split squad games against the Minnesota Twins and Atlanta Braves. This allowed the coaching staff to evaluate a broader range of players, especially with key members absent due to international commitments. The home game in Sarasota was only available on Orioles radio, while the away game could be streamed on MLB.tv, adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans trying to follow the action.
Why it matters
Split squad games during spring training provide teams with valuable opportunities to assess their depth and experiment with different lineup configurations. However, the broadcasting challenges and unconventional player selections in the Orioles' case highlight the complexities and paradoxes that can arise during this preseason period.
The details
The home team's lineup featured some intriguing choices, including Heston Kjerstad in right field, Adley Rutschman behind the plate, and Blaze Alexander - typically a middle infielder - in center field. The inclusion of Wehiwa Aloy, a player not even on the non-roster invite list, was also highly unusual and likely facilitated by the split squad situation and the absence of Gunnar Henderson, who was representing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. The traveling Orioles squad presented a different set of talking points, with Luis De León on the mound and lesser-known names like Willy Vasquez and José Barrero in the lineup.
- The Orioles' split squad games took place on March 7, 2026.
The players
Heston Kjerstad
An Orioles outfielder who was featured in the home team's lineup.
Adley Rutschman
The Orioles' starting catcher, who was behind the plate for the home game.
Blaze Alexander
A middle infielder who was given the nod in center field for the home game, an unusual position for him.
Wehiwa Aloy
A player not even on the Orioles' non-roster invite list, who was included in the home team's lineup, likely due to the split squad situation and the absence of Gunnar Henderson.
Luis De León
The Orioles' pitcher who took the mound for the away game, denying fans the chance to watch one of the team's top pitching prospects on local television.
The takeaway
The Orioles' split squad games on March 7th showcased the challenges and opportunities presented by spring training, where teams must adapt to unexpected absences, experiment with unconventional lineups, and navigate broadcasting hurdles. These unique scenarios provide valuable insights into the depth and flexibility of the Orioles' roster, even if they leave fans and analysts with more questions than answers.
