Orioles' Shane Baz Set for Debut vs. Twins

Newly signed pitcher looks to make strong first impression in Baltimore

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:22am

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Shane Baz, the Baltimore Orioles' newly signed starting pitcher, is set to make his team debut in the series finale against the Minnesota Twins. Baz, who recently inked a five-year, $68 million contract extension, is eager to prove himself to Orioles fans and back up the team's confidence in him.

Why it matters

Baz's debut is an important moment for the Orioles, as the team looks to build momentum early in the season under a new manager. His performance could set the tone for the rest of the year and provide a boost to the team's pitching rotation.

The details

Baz, a right-handed pitcher, is coming to the Orioles from the Tampa Bay Rays, where he made his MLB debut in 2021. In one career matchup against the Twins, Baz took the loss while giving up five runs in 2 1/3 innings. The Orioles are hoping Baz can build on his previous experience and deliver a strong outing against Minnesota.

  • Baz will make his Orioles debut on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Baz signed a five-year, $68 million contract extension with the Orioles just two days before his debut.

The players

Shane Baz

A right-handed pitcher who was recently acquired by the Baltimore Orioles from the Tampa Bay Rays, where he made his MLB debut in 2021.

Zach Eflin

A Baltimore Orioles right-handed pitcher who was in the Rays organization at the same time as Baz.

Colton Cowser

A Baltimore Orioles outfielder who has welcomed Baz to the team and believes he will be a good fit for the rotation.

Royce Lewis

A Minnesota Twins outfielder who hit a two-run homer in Saturday's game against the Orioles.

Kody Clemens

A Minnesota Twins left-handed hitter who is expected to lead off in Sunday's game against the Orioles.

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What they’re saying

“I know Orioles fans don't really know me unless they have seen me playing against them. You're just going to get a guy who's going to give you everything I have every time I get on the field.”

— Shane Baz

“To be able to come full circle in this moment just means the world to him. It means the world to us, too. … He's going to give everything he has.”

— Zach Eflin, Baltimore Orioles pitcher

“Just welcome Shane with open arms and he has become one of us pretty quickly.”

— Colton Cowser, Baltimore Orioles outfielder

“There are going to be situations where we're going to have to hit for guys. That's nothing that any of our guys should or will take personally, but that's just how the game goes.”

— Derek Shelton, Minnesota Twins manager

“I want our guys to be aggressive. I want our guys to err on the side of being aggressive.”

— Craig Albernaz, Baltimore Orioles manager

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.