Orioles Extend Newly Acquired Pitcher Shane Baz with 5-Year Deal

ESPN reports the 26-year-old right-hander will earn $68 million over the contract.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:05am

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The Baltimore Orioles have agreed to a five-year, $68 million contract extension with pitcher Shane Baz, who they acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in December. Baz, 26, has yet to make his debut for the Orioles but has shown promise, going 10-12 with a 4.87 ERA in 31 starts for the Rays last season.

Why it matters

The extension of Baz signals the Orioles' commitment to building a competitive pitching rotation as they look to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Baz's potential upside makes him an important piece of the team's future plans.

The details

Baz appeared in three spring training games for the Orioles, posting a 2.61 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 10.1 innings. The Orioles acquired Baz in December in a trade that sent prospects Caden Bodine, Slater de Brun, Michael Forret and Austin Overn, plus a Competitive Balance Round A pick, to the Rays.

  • The Orioles acquired Baz from the Rays in December 2025.
  • Baz made three spring training appearances for the Orioles in March 2026.

The players

Shane Baz

A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher who was acquired by the Orioles from the Tampa Bay Rays in December 2025.

Jeff Passan

An ESPN MLB reporter who broke the news of Baz's contract extension.

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What they’re saying

“The Orioles extended pitcher Shane Baz, giving him a five-year deal, according to ESPN MLB reporter Jeff Passan.”

— Jeff Passan, ESPN MLB reporter

What’s next

Baz is expected to join the Orioles' starting rotation when the 2026 MLB season begins.

The takeaway

The Orioles' investment in Baz reflects their belief in his potential and their commitment to building a strong pitching staff as they aim to return to the playoffs in the coming years.