New Orioles Manager Talks World Series Expectations

Craig Albernaz discusses building a winning culture and roster competition in first spring training at the helm

Feb. 26, 2026 at 12:07am

In a sit-down interview, new Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz talks about his leadership philosophy, fostering internal competition, and why every team should enter spring training expecting to win a World Series. Albernaz discusses building a day-one mentality, managing expectations, and how veteran additions could help set the tone for a team determined to bring a championship back to Baltimore.

Why it matters

As the Orioles look to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, Albernaz's approach to cultivating a winning clubhouse culture and maximizing the team's talent will be crucial to their success.

The details

Albernaz emphasized the importance of building a day-one mentality, where players are constantly competing and challenging each other without ego. He wants to foster an environment where players can "chirp" and hold each other accountable as part of a healthy, winning culture. The new manager also discussed roster competition, adapting to MLB's new automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system, and how veteran additions could help set the tone for the team.

  • Albernaz's interview took place during the Orioles' spring training in Sarasota, Florida.

The players

Craig Albernaz

The new manager of the Baltimore Orioles, taking over the team for the 2026 season.

C4

A radio host who interviewed Albernaz.

Bryan Nehman

A radio host who interviewed Albernaz.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Every team should enter camp expecting to win a World Series.”

— Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager

What’s next

The Orioles will continue their spring training in Sarasota as they prepare for the 2026 season, with Albernaz looking to set the tone for a winning culture and championship-caliber team.

The takeaway

Albernaz's emphasis on building a competitive, accountable, and ego-free clubhouse culture could be the key to the Orioles ending their playoff drought and contending for a World Series title in the coming seasons.