Jack Leiter helps Rangers shut down Orioles

Rookie pitcher leads Texas to 5-2 win over Baltimore in series opener

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:25am

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Jack Leiter pitched six solid innings with eight strikeouts and Jake Burger drove in a pair of runs as the Texas Rangers defeated the host Baltimore Orioles 5-2 to begin a three-game series Monday night. Relievers Jakob Junis, Jalen Beeks and Tyler Alexander completed the combined seven-hitter with one inning apiece for the Rangers, who've won three straight since a season-opening loss at Philadelphia.

Why it matters

The Rangers are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season, and a strong start from their top pitching prospect Leiter could be a sign that they are on the right track. The Orioles, meanwhile, are still rebuilding and struggling to generate consistent offense early in the season.

The details

Leiter (1-0) allowed two runs on five hits and one walk in his first career appearance against the Orioles. The Rangers scored four runs off Orioles starter Chris Bassitt, who was making his debut for Baltimore. Gunnar Henderson provided both of the Orioles' runs with a solo home run and an RBI single.

  • The game was played on Monday, March 31, 2026.

The players

Jack Leiter

The Texas Rangers' top pitching prospect, who pitched six solid innings with eight strikeouts to earn the win.

Jake Burger

The Rangers' third baseman, who drove in a pair of runs in the win.

Gunnar Henderson

The Orioles' young slugger, who hit a solo home run and drove in a run with a single.

Chris Bassitt

The Orioles' new starting pitcher, who allowed four runs in 4 1/3 innings and took the loss in his Baltimore debut.

Brandon Nimmo

The Rangers' center fielder, who had two hits and scored two runs in the win.

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What they’re saying

“Jack Leiter really set the tone for us tonight with his performance. He's a big part of our future, and it's great to see him get off to a strong start.”

— Chris Woodward, Texas Rangers Manager

What’s next

The Rangers and Orioles will continue their three-game series on Tuesday night, with the Rangers looking to clinch the series win.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Rangers' young pitching talent in Leiter, as well as the Orioles' continued struggles to generate consistent offense. While it's still early in the season, the Rangers' strong start could be a sign that they are ready to compete in the AL West, while the Orioles have more work to do to turn their rebuild around.