Orioles Name Trevor Rogers Opening Day Starter

Spring Training Updates and Roster Predictions Ahead of 2026 Season

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:39pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an Orioles baseball game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the team's evolving identity and potential for surprise.The Orioles' underrated pitching rotation takes center stage as the team prepares to open the 2026 season with a fresh, adaptable approach.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Orioles have named Trevor Rogers as their Opening Day starting pitcher, sparking excitement and curiosity around the team's pitching rotation. With the Orioles' rotation being described as the 'most underrated in all of baseball' by Rogers himself, the decision is seen as a statement of the team's confidence in their pitching staff.

Why it matters

The Orioles' decision to start Rogers on Opening Day suggests the team believes their rotation is primed to surprise people this season. As an underrated squad free from high expectations, the Orioles could thrive by flying under the radar and capitalizing on their pitching strength.

The details

The Orioles are still finalizing their roster with 11 days until Opening Day, including decisions on whether to go with a five- or six-man rotation. This uncertainty is seen as a positive, keeping competition fierce and the players adaptable. New hitting coach Dustin Lind's emphasis on 'putting the ball in play' could also complement the team's pitching prowess.

  • The Orioles announced Trevor Rogers as their Opening Day starter with 11 days left until the 2026 season begins.
  • Harold Baines, a key figure in Orioles history, celebrates his 67th birthday.

The players

Trevor Rogers

The Orioles' Opening Day starting pitcher, who has described the team's rotation as the 'most underrated in all of baseball'.

Craig Albernaz

The Orioles' manager, who is still deciding whether to use a five- or six-man rotation.

Zach Eflin

An Orioles pitcher whose fate is still uncertain as the team finalizes their roster.

Dean Kremer

An Orioles pitcher whose fate is still uncertain as the team finalizes their roster.

Dustin Lind

The Orioles' new hitting coach, who emphasizes 'putting the ball in play'.

Mike Elias

The Orioles' general manager, known for late-game roster moves.

Harold Baines

A key figure in Orioles history, celebrating his 67th birthday.

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What they’re saying

“The Orioles' rotation is the most underrated in all of baseball.”

— Trevor Rogers

“Putting the ball in play is the key to our approach at the plate.”

— Dustin Lind, Hitting Coach

What’s next

The Orioles will continue to finalize their roster, including decisions on the rotation and potential waiver claims or trades, ahead of Opening Day.

The takeaway

The Orioles' decision to start Trevor Rogers on Opening Day signals their confidence in an underrated pitching rotation that could be the key to the team's success this season. With a focus on adaptability, fundamentals, and flying under the radar, the Orioles are poised to surprise people and build on their rich history of unexpected triumphs.