Orioles' Baz set to prove worth after signing extension

Pitcher inks 5-year, $68M deal ahead of Sunday start against Twins

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:35am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the dynamic energy of the sport.The Orioles' new ace Shane Baz looks to prove his worth after signing a lucrative contract extension.Baltimore Today

Pitcher Shane Baz will make his first start for the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday, just two days after signing a five-year, $68 million contract extension with the team. Baz, an offseason free-agent acquisition, is eager to show the Orioles they made a smart business decision in signing him to the long-term deal.

Why it matters

The Orioles are hoping Baz can be a key part of their starting rotation as they look to build on a promising 2025 season and compete in the AL East. Baz's performance in his debut start will be closely watched as the team evaluates their investment in the young pitcher.

The details

Baz, 26, was signed by the Orioles in the offseason after spending his first four MLB seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays. The right-hander has a career 3.91 ERA and 1.21 WHIP, and the Orioles are banking on him taking the next step in his development as part of their rotation.

  • Baz signed his 5-year, $68 million extension on Friday, March 27, 2026.
  • Baz will make his first start for the Orioles on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Shane Baz

A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher who was signed by the Baltimore Orioles in the offseason after spending his first four MLB seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Baltimore Orioles

A professional baseball team based in Baltimore, Maryland that competes in the American League East division of Major League Baseball.

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What they’re saying

“It's such a great team. I think it was kind of a no-brainer.”

— Shane Baz

What’s next

Baz's performance in his debut start on Sunday will be closely watched as the Orioles evaluate their investment in the young pitcher.

The takeaway

The Orioles are banking on Baz to be a key part of their starting rotation as they look to build on a promising 2025 season and compete in the tough AL East division. His first start will be an important early test of the team's offseason acquisition.