Another day, another quiet Monday for Orioles fans. It’s enough to make you wonder: are the Orioles done making moves, or is the silence just the calm before the storm? After a flurry of offseason activity, things have hit a standstill, leaving fans like us itching for more—especially if you believe the team still needs tweaks to contend this season. But here’s the silver lining: whether the Orioles make another move or not, we’re one day closer to the 2026 baseball season. And let’s be honest, that’s something to get excited about.
Mark your calendars, because the action is just around the corner. Pitchers and catchers report on February 11th, with the first full-squad workout set for February 16th. The Grapefruit League kicks off on the 20th with a showdown against the Yankees. While spring training games might not set your heart racing, the World Baseball Classic (WBC) from March 5-17 promises to be a highlight—that is, if everything goes according to plan.
But here’s where it gets controversial. Over the weekend, news broke that Puerto Rico might withdraw from the WBC due to insurance issues. A league-approved insurer is refusing to cover at least eight players, including superstar Francisco Lindor, who has a history of surgeries. If Puerto Rico pulls out, it would be a massive blow to the tournament—especially since the first round is being hosted in San Juan. Talk about awkward. Personally, I’m traveling to Puerto Rico for two WBC games, but I didn’t snag tickets to their matches—they sold out in a flash. What do you think? Is this insurance dispute fair, or is it a missed opportunity for the tournament?
Shifting gears, let’s talk former Orioles. Austin Hays inked a one-year, $5 million deal with the Chicago White Sox, complete with a mutual option for 2027. Meanwhile, Cole Irvin signed a minor league deal with the Dodgers, earning an invite to big league camp after spending 2025 in Korea with the Doosan Bears. Irvin posted a 4.48 ERA in 28 starts—not bad, but will it translate back in the majors?
And this is the part most people miss: injuries could play a bigger role in the Orioles’ 2026 season than you think. Last year, more players battled through injuries than we realized. Will this year be different? Jon Meoli dives into that question in a recent piece worth checking out.
Now, let’s celebrate some birthdays! If today’s your special day, happy birthday! You share it with six former Orioles, including Hall of Famers Don Buford (89) and Melvin Mora (54). Buford was an All-Star-caliber player from 1968-1972, shining brightest in the 1970 World Series with an .851 OPS. Mora, a late bloomer who debuted at 27, was a standout for the Orioles from 2000-2010, posting bWARs over 4 in multiple seasons. Other birthday boys include Travis Snider (38), Scott Erickson (58), Pat Clements (64), and Paul Kilgus (64).
On this day in history, the Orioles made some memorable—and not-so-memorable—moves. In 2005, they officially traded for Sammy Sosa, sending Jerry Hairston, Jr. to the Cubs. Spoiler alert: Sosa’s stint in Baltimore was a disaster. In 2009, they acquired Rich Hill, who posted a 7.80 ERA in his only season with the team. Fast forward to 2021, and the Orioles traded Alex Cobb to the Angels for Jahmai Jones. Cobb struggled in Baltimore but found success elsewhere—a reminder that sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes.
So, as we wait for the Orioles’ next move (or lack thereof), here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With the WBC drama and the Orioles’ quiet offseason, what’s the biggest storyline you’re keeping an eye on this year? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
