Blaze Alexander Excited to Join Orioles After Trade

Utility player says he's ready to help Baltimore reach the playoffs and win a World Series

Feb. 18, 2026 at 11:07am

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The Baltimore Orioles recently acquired utility player Blaze Alexander in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Alexander, who was selected in the 11th round of the 2018 MLB Draft, is excited about the move and believes the Orioles have the potential to make the playoffs and win a World Series championship.

Why it matters

The Orioles traded away a solid reliever in Kade Strowd to acquire Alexander, suggesting they see him as an important piece for their future. Alexander's versatility and potential to provide timely offense could help fill the void left by the injured Jackson Holliday early in the season.

The details

In the trade, the Orioles sent reliever Kade Strowd and minor league players Wellington Aracena and José Mejia to the Diamondbacks in exchange for Alexander. While Alexander's .230 batting average and .706 OPS don't jump off the page, the Orioles likely see him as a valuable utility player who can fill in at multiple positions.

  • On February 5, the Orioles completed the trade with the Diamondbacks for Blaze Alexander.
  • Alexander spoke with MLB.com's Jake Rill about the trade on February 16.

The players

Blaze Alexander

A utility player acquired by the Baltimore Orioles in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Kade Strowd

A reliever who the Orioles traded to the Diamondbacks as part of the deal for Blaze Alexander.

Mike Elias

The President of Baseball Operations for the Baltimore Orioles, who orchestrated the trade for Blaze Alexander.

Jackson Holliday

An Orioles player who is likely to be sidelined for the start of the season, opening up playing time for Blaze Alexander.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes, in the offseason, you wonder if your name's being thrown out there and stuff. To be traded for three guys, it means they value you and they wanted me, needed me. I couldn't be more excited to come here, represent Baltimore, and be an Oriole. I've heard really good things about the ballclub. The first couple days here, guys have been really nice, really good people, and that's all I've been hearing.”

— Blaze Alexander

“A super-athlete. A guy who can be versatile, can play everywhere, just go out there and make it happen. I'm a gamer.”

— Blaze Alexander

“I'm here to get to the playoffs and help win a World Series championship, which I think we're fully capable of doing.”

— Blaze Alexander

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This trade highlights the Orioles' belief in Blaze Alexander's potential to contribute to their roster, even with the impending return of Jackson Holliday from injury. Alexander's versatility and positive attitude could make him a valuable asset as the Orioles aim to reach the playoffs and compete for a World Series championship.