What's Happening?
The Baltimore Orioles have commenced their spring training in Sarasota, marking the start of preparations for the 2026 baseball season. The team held its first full-squad workout, with players reuniting and new members joining the ranks. However, the team faces early challenges with injuries to key players. Jackson Holliday is expected to miss the start of the season due to a broken hamate bone, while Jordan Westburg is dealing with an oblique issue. Despite these setbacks, the Orioles are focused on maintaining the health of their roster as they prepare for the Grapefruit League opener against the Yankees. The team aims to finalize its roster, reducing it from the current large camp group to the 26 players who will represent the Orioles on Opening
Day.
Why It's Important?
The start of spring training is crucial for the Orioles as they aim to build momentum for the upcoming season. The injuries to Holliday and Westburg highlight the team's vulnerability and the importance of depth in the roster. The Orioles are banking on the potential of their current players, including Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers, to step up as key contributors. The team's ability to manage injuries and maintain a competitive lineup will be vital in improving upon their previous season's performance. The health and performance of the roster during spring training could significantly impact the Orioles' chances in the 2026 season.
What's Next?
The Orioles will continue their spring training with a focus on player health and roster evaluation. As they prepare for the Grapefruit League games, the team will need to address the injuries and ensure that key players are ready for the regular season. The management will also be assessing the potential of their current roster to fill any gaps left by injured players. The upcoming games will provide an opportunity for players to prove their worth and secure a spot on the Opening Day roster. The team's performance in these games will be closely watched as an indicator of their readiness for the season.
