Orioles Embrace Fun Under New Manager Craig Albernaz

Albernaz's coaching philosophy of honesty and authenticity helps revive team's joyful energy after frustrating 2025 season.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:50pm

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The 2025 Baltimore Orioles struggled with poor pitching, lack of clutch hitting, and sloppy defense, leading to a disappointing season. However, the team's new manager, Craig Albernaz, has brought a renewed sense of fun and positivity to the clubhouse. Albernaz's focus on treating each player as an individual and being honest and authentic in his communication has helped the Orioles regain the vibrant team chemistry they had in previous seasons.

Why it matters

Team chemistry and positive vibes can be a significant advantage in baseball, as they lead to players buying into the little things that create wins, like sacrificing to move runners over or hitting the cutoff man. The Orioles are hoping Albernaz's approach will help them rebound from their 2025 struggles and return to being a competitive team.

The details

From the moment Albernaz was introduced to Orioles fans, he made it clear he would bring a different approach to the team. He was funny, had a distinctive voice, and joked about it, showing his willingness to be authentic. Albernaz also emphasized his coaching philosophy of recognizing each player's unique needs and communicating with honesty and transparency. As spring training progressed, there were signs the players were enjoying working with the new manager. This was confirmed when, after Albernaz's first career win, the team celebrated by tossing him into a laundry cart, wheeling him into the showers, and dousing him with beer - a clear sign of the players' buy-in and affection for their new leader.

  • The 2025 Orioles struggled throughout the season.
  • Albernaz was introduced as the new Orioles manager before the 2026 season.
  • Albernaz earned his first career win as Orioles manager in the 2026 season.

The players

Craig Albernaz

The new manager of the Baltimore Orioles, known for his focus on honesty, authenticity, and treating each player as an individual.

Baltimore Orioles

The MLB team based in Baltimore, Maryland, that struggled in the 2025 season but is hoping to rebound under Albernaz's leadership.

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The takeaway

The Orioles' struggles in 2025 highlighted the importance of team chemistry and positive vibes in baseball. With the hiring of Craig Albernaz as manager, the Orioles are hoping to recapture the joyful energy that had been missing, using Albernaz's focus on honesty, authenticity, and treating each player as an individual. If Albernaz can maintain this approach, it could give the Orioles a significant advantage as they look to rebound in 2026.