Good morning, Camden Chatters.
Exciting news abounds for Orioles fans as spring baseball kicks off today! The Orioles will face the Yankees in their Grapefruit League opener at 1:05 PM in Sarasota, with the game being broadcast on MASN and WBAL radio. This matchup marks the Orioles’ return to the diamond after nearly five long months away.
However, not all news is positive. The health of infielder Jordan Westburg has raised concerns. Initially sidelined by a sore oblique, Westburg recently underwent imaging on his elbow, raising fears of a potentially serious injury. While the Orioles have yet to provide an official diagnosis, the need for imaging typically heralds caution, leading fans to worry about the dreaded Tommy John surgery. Although a glimmer of hope remains if the imaging indicates no serious damage, it’s clear Westburg will miss some significant time, likely ruling him out for Opening Day, further stretching an already thin infield with Jackson Holliday also sidelined for a few weeks.
In light of these injuries, the Orioles may need to rethink their roster strategy. Newly acquired utility player Blaze Alexander cannot cover both positions, which leaves them with a tough decision: either give Coby Mayo another chance at third base, where he has faced challenges in both the minor and major leagues, or pursue an emergency signing or trade. Interestingly, former Gold Glove third baseman Ramón Urías, who was non-tendered by the Astros in November, remains available; however, there’s no word on the O’s interest in bringing him back.
Despite these challenges, the Orioles’ season is far from over. With a full spring training schedule and a lengthy 162-game regular season ahead, there is still much to look forward to. After the health struggles experienced by the 2025 Orioles, starting the 2026 season with these key injuries casts a shadow on early optimism, but silver linings remain with the depth of talent in the organization.
In lighter news, the opener also brought the mention of various players, including non-roster invitee Henriquez, whose unique baseball journey has generated support among fans. Today’s game serves as an important reminder of the unpredictability of the sport.
Additionally, for those celebrating today, happy birthday greetings are extended to former Orioles outfielder Julio Borbón, who turns 40, and the late Jim Wilson, an All-Star from the 1955-56 seasons. On this day in 1990, the Orioles signed designated hitter Sam Horn, notable not just for his decent power numbers but also his infamous six-strikeout game, which has since been immortalized in baseball lore.
As the Orioles delve into spring training, excitement and uncertainty both hang thick in the air—an engaging backdrop to what promises to be an intriguing season ahead.