Orioles — new and veteran — excited for Opening Day in Baltimore

Seven players will make their Opening Day debuts, including 24-year-old third baseman Coby Mayo.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 2:31pm

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The Baltimore Orioles have a talented roster replete with a blend of veterans and youngsters. Seven players will make their Opening Day debuts, including 24-year-old third baseman Coby Mayo, who can't wait to finally take part in person.

Why it matters

Opening Day is a special occasion for any baseball team, but it holds particular significance for the Orioles, who are looking to build on their recent success and make a strong start to the season in front of their passionate home crowd.

The details

The Orioles' roster features a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent, with seven players set to make their Opening Day debuts. Among them is 24-year-old third baseman Coby Mayo, who is eager to experience the energy and excitement of the occasion in person after watching the 2024 opener on TV. Utility infielder Blaze Alexander, acquired in a February trade, is also looking forward to his first Opening Day in Baltimore, while starting pitcher Trevor Rogers is honored to take the mound on this special day. For first-year manager Craig Albernaz, Thursday's game will mark his official debut, and he is excited to hear the iconic 'O' chant during the national anthem.

  • The Baltimore Orioles will host their 2026 season opener on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

The players

Coby Mayo

A 24-year-old third baseman who will be making his Opening Day debut for the Orioles.

Blaze Alexander

A utility infielder who was acquired by the Orioles in a February trade and will be making his first Opening Day appearance in Baltimore.

Trevor Rogers

The Orioles' starting pitcher for Opening Day, who is honored to take the mound on this special occasion.

Craig Albernaz

The Orioles' first-year manager, who is excited for his official debut and to hear the iconic 'O' chant during the national anthem.

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What they’re saying

“I watched the 2024 Opening Day (game) vs. the Angels on the TV in Norfolk and it just looked awesome, like a great time. The fans were into it.”

— Coby Mayo

“I was actually just talking to someone, my debut was Opening Day after the Diamondbacks were in the World Series, and I have a feeling this is going to be a notch above that.”

— Blaze Alexander

“I was honored, I didn't take it for granted at all. This starting staff that we have in this room, any of those guys could have been the starter on Opening Day. The fact that they turned to me for this occasion, I was very honored and very blessed to take the ball.”

— Trevor Rogers

“Opening Day always hits differently, especially in Baltimore, opening up at home with our crowd behind us is going to be special, and honestly, I just can't wait to hear that 'O' during the national anthem, so that's going to be a special part of it.”

— Craig Albernaz

The takeaway

The Orioles' Opening Day roster features a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent, all of whom are eager to kick off the season in front of the passionate Baltimore fans. This mix of new and familiar faces, combined with the energy and excitement of Opening Day, sets the stage for what could be an exciting year for the Orioles.