Veteran Pitcher Chris Bassitt Signs with Orioles

Former Blue Jays starter cites chance to win World Series as key reason for joining Baltimore

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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After spending the last three seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, veteran right-handed starting pitcher Chris Bassitt has signed with the Baltimore Orioles. Bassitt, who is nearing the end of his career, cited the Orioles' chance to win a World Series as the main reason behind his decision to join the division rival.

Why it matters

Bassitt's signing with the Orioles is a significant move, as the team looks to bounce back after finishing last in their division last season. The addition of an experienced starter like Bassitt, paired with the Orioles' existing talent on offense, could help the team make a push for the playoffs.

The details

Last season with the Blue Jays, Bassitt finished with an 11-9 record, 166 strikeouts, and a 3.96 ERA through 32 games played. With Toronto signing other starting pitchers to the bullpen, including Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce, Bassitt found himself on the back burner, leading him to sign with the division rival Orioles this week.

  • Bassitt signed with the Orioles on Thursday, as spring training quickly approaches.
  • Last season, Bassitt played 32 games for the Toronto Blue Jays.

The players

Chris Bassitt

A veteran right-handed starting pitcher who spent the last three seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Baltimore Orioles

A Major League Baseball team based in Baltimore, Maryland that plays in the American League East division.

Toronto Blue Jays

A Major League Baseball team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada that plays in the American League East division.

Dylan Cease

A starting pitcher who was signed by the Toronto Blue Jays this offseason.

Cody Ponce

A starting pitcher who was signed by the Toronto Blue Jays this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“No. 1 reason is a chance to win, and not just win a couple of games, but win a World Series, and I think this team has the ability to do that.”

— Chris Bassitt (Sporting News)

What’s next

As spring training approaches, the Orioles will look to integrate Bassitt into their starting rotation and continue to build a roster capable of competing for a World Series championship.

The takeaway

Bassitt's decision to sign with the Orioles highlights the team's potential to be a contender in the American League East, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. The addition of an experienced starting pitcher like Bassitt, combined with the Orioles' existing offensive talent, could make them a formidable opponent in the division.