Orioles Reach Contract Agreements with 11 Arbitration-Eligible Players

Key Signings Include Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, and Ryan Mountcastle

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:22am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game or players broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the Orioles' team colors of orange and black, conveying the complex negotiations behind the team's contract agreements.The Orioles' strategic contract negotiations with their young stars aim to secure the team's future as they push for sustained success in the American League East.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Orioles have navigated the complex arbitration process, reaching agreements with 11 of their arbitration-eligible players ahead of Thursday's deadline. The team secured deals with several key homegrown talents, including infielder Gunnar Henderson, catcher Adley Rutschman, and first baseman Ryan Mountcastle.

Why it matters

These contract settlements are crucial for the Orioles as they look to build on their recent success and continue their push towards contention in the American League East. The team's ability to retain and properly compensate its young core will be a significant factor in their long-term competitiveness.

The details

The Orioles' arbitration-eligible players include a mix of rising stars and established contributors. Henderson, the team's top prospect, agreed to a $8.5 million deal for his first year of arbitration eligibility. Rutschman, the team's star catcher, settled for $7.25 million, while Mountcastle signed a $6.787 million contract with a $7.5 million club option for 2027. Other notable agreements include outfielder Taylor Ward ($12.175 million as a Super Two player), left-hander Trevor Rogers ($6.2 million), and right-hander Tyler Wells ($2.445 million).

  • The Orioles reached these contract agreements ahead of Thursday's arbitration deadline.

The players

Gunnar Henderson

The Orioles' top prospect, who agreed to a $8.5 million deal for his first year of arbitration eligibility.

Adley Rutschman

The Orioles' star catcher, who settled for a $7.25 million contract.

Ryan Mountcastle

The Orioles' first baseman, who signed a $6.787 million contract with a $7.5 million club option for 2027.

Taylor Ward

The Orioles' outfielder, who earned the highest salary at $12.175 million due to his Super Two status.

Trevor Rogers

The Orioles' left-hander, who agreed to a $6.2 million contract.

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What’s next

The Orioles will continue to monitor the progress of their arbitration-eligible players and may make additional roster moves or contract extensions in the coming weeks and months as they prepare for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Orioles' ability to retain and properly compensate their young core will be a significant factor in their long-term competitiveness. The team's success in navigating the arbitration process demonstrates their commitment to building a sustainable contender in the AL East.