Top Orioles prospect could force tough outfield decision

Dylan Beavers' strong 2025 season and 70-grade speed could earn him a starting role in Baltimore's crowded outfield.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Baltimore Orioles had an active offseason, making several key additions to their roster. While the infield looks set, the outfield remains a bit of a question mark. However, one of the team's top prospects, Dylan Beavers, could force the Orioles' hand with a strong spring training performance and earn a starting corner outfield spot to begin the season.

Why it matters

The Orioles are looking to contend in the AL East, and their outfield depth will be crucial to their success. Beavers' potential emergence could provide a boost to their lineup and baserunning, but it would also create a difficult decision for the team in terms of playing time allocation.

The details

Beavers, who had a breakout 2025 season in the minors, could play his way onto the Orioles' opening day roster with a strong spring. The team already has several outfield options, including Taylor Ward, Colton Cowser, and Tyler O'Neill, but Beavers' 70-grade speed and the Orioles' aggressive baserunning style could give him an edge.

  • Beavers made his MLB debut in 2025.

The players

Dylan Beavers

One of the Orioles' top prospects, Beavers had a standout 2025 season in the minors and could earn a starting outfield spot with a strong spring training.

Taylor Ward

An outfielder acquired by the Orioles this offseason, Ward will be competing for playing time in the crowded Baltimore outfield.

Colton Cowser

Another outfielder on the Orioles' roster, Cowser will also be vying for a starting role in the team's outfield.

Tyler O'Neill

The Orioles added O'Neill in a trade this offseason, giving them another talented outfield option to consider.

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The takeaway

The Orioles' outfield situation bears watching this spring, as the emergence of top prospect Dylan Beavers could force the team to make a difficult decision on how to allocate playing time in a crowded group. Beavers' speed and potential could give him an edge, but the Orioles have several other capable options as they look to contend in the AL East.