Orioles' Rutschman Receives First Day Off of Season

Rookie catcher Samuel Basallo to fill in behind the plate against Twins

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:19pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the movements and positioning of a baseball catcher, with sharp planes of color and form representing the dynamic action of the game.A cubist interpretation of a young catcher's movements behind home plate, reflecting the strategic rest day for Orioles star Adley Rutschman.Baltimore Today

Orioles star catcher Adley Rutschman will receive his first day off of the 2026 season on Sunday, as the team closes out its opening series against the Minnesota Twins with a day game. Rookie Samuel Basallo will start in Rutschman's place behind the plate.

Why it matters

Rutschman is considered one of the top young talents in baseball and a key part of the Orioles' rebuilding efforts. Giving him an early-season rest day is a strategic move to keep the 24-year-old fresh over the long 162-game campaign.

The details

Rutschman started the Orioles' first two games of the season, but with a day game on Sunday, the team has opted to give the young catcher a breather. Basallo, a 22-year-old prospect, will make his first MLB start in Rutschman's place.

  • Rutschman started the Orioles' first two games of the 2026 season.
  • The Orioles are closing out their opening series against the Twins with a day game on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Adley Rutschman

The Orioles' 24-year-old star catcher and one of the top young talents in baseball.

Samuel Basallo

A 22-year-old Orioles prospect who will make his first MLB start behind the plate on Sunday.

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The takeaway

Resting Rutschman early in the season is a smart move by the Orioles to keep their young star fresh and healthy for the long haul, as they look to build on their promising 2025 campaign.