Orioles Beat Akin in Arbitration

First win this year for clubs trailing in arbitration cases

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The Baltimore Orioles have won their salary arbitration case against pitcher Keegan Akin. The Orioles were the first team this year to prevail in an arbitration case after trailing 5-1 in the overall tally.

Why it matters

Salary arbitration cases are an important part of the MLB offseason, determining player salaries for the upcoming season. The Orioles' victory over Akin represents a shift in the trend, as teams have struggled overall in these cases so far this year.

The details

Akin, a 27-year-old left-handed pitcher, had filed for a salary of $3.4 million, while the Orioles countered with $3 million. The arbitrator sided with the Orioles, awarding Akin a $3 million salary for the 2026 season.

  • The arbitration case was heard on February 6, 2026.

The players

Keegan Akin

A 27-year-old left-handed pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles.

Baltimore Orioles

A Major League Baseball team based in Baltimore, Maryland.

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What they’re saying

“We're pleased with the outcome of the arbitration case and look forward to Keegan contributing to our team this season.”

— Mike Elias, General Manager, Baltimore Orioles

The takeaway

The Orioles' victory in this arbitration case represents a rare win for teams trailing in the overall tally, suggesting a potential shift in the dynamics of these negotiations as the offseason progresses.