“I mean, for me, it’s frustrating. I’m sure it is for everybody else,” Alonso admitted, according to Orioles on MASN. “I wish I could have been better, not just tonight, but many nights before… I expect more out of myself, and I know other people do as well, so it’s frustrating.”

Through his first 13 games in Baltimore, Alonso is batting just .176 with one home run and three RBIs, alongside 17 strikeouts. For a player known for his power and consistency, the early slump has not only impacted the lineup but also intensified scrutiny as the Orioles look to stay competitive.

Alonso acknowledges mechanical and approach issues at the plate

Alonso did not shy away from identifying the root of his struggles, pointing directly to his approach and execution. Following a 6-3 loss to the San Francisco Giants, the veteran emphasized the need for better discipline and consistency in the strike zone.

“I need to execute better,” Alonso said. “I need to be more consistent, I need to do a better job of controlling the strike zone… when they come in the strike zone, I need to do a better job of putting it hard in play.”

His candid self-assessment reflects a player aware of both the technical adjustments required and the expectations that come with his role. Despite the slow start, Alonso maintained confidence that improvement is inevitable.

Orioles remain patient as season still in early stages

While the numbers have been underwhelming, the Orioles understand the season is still in its infancy. Alonso’s track record suggests that a turnaround is likely, especially as he continues refining his timing and pitch recognition. “But for me, this is not my standard. Results-wise, it’s unacceptable for me, and I will be better. I know that. But yeah, it’s not fun,” Alonso added.

With the series against San Francisco continuing, Baltimore will be counting on Alonso to rediscover his form and anchor the offense as the schedule progresses. For now, the focus remains on adjustments, patience, and trusting that the production will follow.

“Instead of the usual 75% of new faces, it’s 100% here. It’s refreshing, you know? For me, it’s been wonderful. Being here in Sarasota is not far from home, and I grew up playing travel ball at the Cal Ripken complex right across the field. So it’s very nostalgic coming to work every morning,” Alonso told MLB Network Radio.

Given Alonso’s enthusiasm for joining the Orioles, the fanbase holds high expectations for his performance this upcoming season. He arrives in Baltimore as the Mets‘ all-time leader in home runs, and fans expect him to deliver similar results for his new team.

Although former teammates like Juan Soto have shared heartfelt messages about Alonso’s departure, Alonso appears content in Baltimore, and fans are optimistic about his contributions.

Alonso makes an impact with Orioles

Displaying impressive form during spring training, Alonso has proven why Baltimore holds high expectations for him this MLB season. His performance over eight games has already made a significant impression.

Here are his spring training statistics to date:

• Games Played: 8
• At-Bats: 22
• Hits: 8
• Home Runs: 3
• RBI: 7
• Batting Average: .364
• OPS: 1.273

Orioles’ projected Opening Day lineup featuring Alonso

With his standout performances during spring training, manager Brandon Hyde is set to include Alonso as a key player in the Orioles’ projected lineup for Opening Day against World Series frontrunners, the Toronto Blue Jays.

Here is the projected Opening Day lineup:

1. Gunnar Henderson SS
2. Adley Rutschman C
3. Pete Alonso 1B
4. Anthony Santander RF
5. Jordan Westburg 2B
6. Heston Kjerstad LF
7. Jackson Holliday 3B
8. Colton Cowser CF
9. Coby Mayo DH

Beyond the stars, there is a keen interest in observing minor league players as potential MLB prospects for the regular season. In this regard, Vance Honeycutt has garnered attention with his exceptional 3-for-3 performance in spring training.

Though Honeycutt shares his spring training home run tally with four other players, he’s distinguished himself by hitting three home runs in three at-bats. This feat eclipses the efforts of Alonso and Judge, who, despite having more at-bats, have only managed two homers.

The emergence of a young prospect making waves in his first minor league season is always notable. For Honeycutt, his moment to shine had to wait until this year, despite being a first-round pick in 2024 by the Orioles.

Honeycutt’s thoughts on his landmark performance

Per MLB.com, Honeycutt stands tied at the top with players like the Yankees’ Spencer Jones and the Red Sox’s Jarren Duran. However, the Orioles’ prospect is singular in boasting a perfect spring training outing.

He shared his insights with MLB.com, saying, “Last year was tough, and it’s a new year, new me. I’m excited about it,” he expressed. “I’m just trying to be early, work in the middle of the field, and honestly, just put a good swing on a pitch I want to hit. That’s probably the main thing, and just continue to do that over and over again.”

Other players homering thrice in spring training

Currently, three home runs serve as the pinnacle of spring training stats. Alongside Honeycutt, Jones, and Duran, several other players have matched this feat, albeit with more at-bats:

• Charlie Condon – Rockies: 3 HR in 14 AB
• Jarren Duran – Red Sox: 3 HR in 12 AB
• Big Gamel – Braves: 3 HR in 11 AB
• Connor Griffin – Pirates: 3 HR in 14 AB
• Vince Honeycutt – Orioles: 3 HR in 3 AB
• Spencer Jones – Yankees: 3 HR in 10 AB
• TJ Rumifield – Rockies: 3 HR in 14 AB
• Mike Yastrzemski – Braves: 3 HR in 10 AB

The 30-year-old brings seven seasons of major league experience, including productive years in San Francisco. While he is not guaranteed a roster spot, Estrada provides infield flexibility and veteran depth as the Orioles finalize their roster decisions.

According to Major League Baseball’s official transaction log, the deal was completed Monday. Estrada will now compete for a potential bench role during camp.

Estrada’s strong stretch in San Francisco

Estrada enjoyed his best stretch from 2021 to 2023 with the Giants. Across 312 games during that span, he hit .266/.320/.416 with 35 home runs, 133 RBIs, and 153 runs scored. He debuted with the Yankees in 2019 and has accumulated 436 hits and 4.4 bWAR over seven partial MLB seasons.

Recent struggles and opportunity in Baltimore

However, in the past two seasons, Estrada posted negative WAR in 2024 and was removed from San Francisco’s 40-man roster. After signing with the Colorado Rockies last year, he began the season on the injured list due to a fractured wrist and struggled to regain consistent form.

Because Estrada has more than five years of MLB service time, his contract likely includes an opt-out clause if he does not make the big-league roster. For Baltimore, the move represents a low-risk addition with potential upside if the veteran infielder returns to his previous level of production.

Westburg has become an important part of Baltimore’s infield production in recent seasons. When reports surfaced about ligament damage in his elbow, the immediate fear centered on the possibility of Tommy John surgery — a procedure that could have sidelined him for the entire year. Instead, the organization opted for a different path.

According to Jacob Calvin Meyer of The Baltimore Sun, Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias said: “Jordan Westburg has a partially torn UCL… He will not get Tommy John surgery. The team is opting for PRP injections. He will be out through April… His timeline after that is TBD.” While the diagnosis is significant, the avoidance of surgery keeps his 2026 campaign alive.

How serious is the elbow injury for Alonso’s teammate?

A partially torn UCL is not a minor issue, particularly for an infielder who relies on arm strength across the diamond. However, PRP treatment offers a recovery path that is less invasive and potentially faster than reconstructive surgery. Avoiding Tommy John dramatically improves Westburg’s long-term outlook.

Still, Baltimore confirmed he will miss at least the month of April, and there is no defined return date beyond that window. The team will evaluate his progress before clearing him for full baseball activities.

What does this mean for the Orioles’ lineup?

Westburg earned All-Star honors in 2024 and remained productive in 2025 despite appearing in only 85 games. He slashed .265/.313/.457 with 17 home runs and a .770 OPS in 352 plate appearances, providing consistent right-handed power and defensive flexibility. His absence leaves an early-season gap that Baltimore must address internally.

While speculation about his future had been building for months, some Mets fans were frustrated to learn the club never made a formal offer before he left. The situation added another layer to what was already an emotional split between the franchise and one of its most recognizable stars, with the Mets recently catching a two-word shot from Alonso.

In a recent conversation with Newsday’s David Lennon, Alonso addressed the controversy, making it clear he is focused on his new chapter with the Orioles rather than revisiting what could have been in Queens.

“For me, there’s no need to think about the what-ifs and the hypotheticals because I’m so appreciated here,” Alonso said. “To where it’s like I feel so comfortable, so awesome with this group, that I don’t need to look back. I’m beyond happy here, so there’s no reason for me to think anything else other than this organization winning a World Series.”

The slugger, who became the Mets’ all-time home run leader last summer, had openly expressed his desire to remain with the team during the past two seasons. Ultimately, the organization chose a different direction.

Gratitude for Mets tenure

Despite the business side of the breakup, Alonso spoke warmly about his years in New York. “Beyond grateful for the experience,” he said. “But my biggest priority is to win for this team and the city of Baltimore. I’m beyond appreciative for the past — but it’s the past. I need to focus on the present and the future.”

Alonso also shared a message for Mets fans who supported him throughout his time in New York. “It was a part of the journey,” he added. “I’d like to think I made a lot of great memories, and I’ll carry those memories for the rest of my life.”

“Womp womp,” Alonso told a fan during a break in the Orioles’ spring training practice. According to Jomboy Media, the fan had asked Alonso, “Are you able to sign my ball? My buddy is a big Mets fan, and he wasn’t able to make it today.”

Upon hearing about the unfortunate situation for the Mets fan, Alonso’s response was seen by many as a lack of love for the club he had played for his entire career.

While ‘womp womp’ may sound like gibberish to many, it’s become a popular slang among younger generations. The expression is used to mockingly express disappointment. Similar to saying “that’s too bad” in an ironic tone. Alonso knew what his reaction could cause on the Mets, and he used it to send a message.

When do Mets and Alonso meet again?

After a high-drama offseason, the Mets are ready to turn the page and head into the 2026 MLB season. Although they recently learned a disturbing update on Francisco Lindor’s injury, they remain confident this could be their year. However, New York will face opposition from several fronts—among them, Alonso and the O’s.

The Mets will take on the Orioles three times in 2026, with the three-game series taking place from Sept. 14–16 at Citi Field. Thus, Alonso will have to face the music when he returns to Queens.

Passan reported, “Right-hander Chris Bassitt and the Baltimore Orioles have agreed on a one-year, $18.5 million contract.” With this signing, another notable free agent is off the market, though several other valuable players remain available.

Bassitt, who had previous stints with both the Giants and the NY Mets, was on the Mets’ radar, as they seek to fortify their pitching roster. A reunion seemed likely, given the team’s urgent need for rotation depth.

The Mets were eyeing Bassitt from a pool of free-agent pitchers also pursued by the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays. Now, they must explore other options in the free-agent market.

Current NY Mets pitching rotation

Although strengthening the rotation remains a priority, the Mets boast a roster of promising pitchers, offering hope for the upcoming season as they aim to rebound from their performance in 2025.

Here is the current pitching rotation for the NY Mets:

1. Freddy Peralta
2. Nolan McLean
3. Sean Manaea
4. Clay Holmes
5. David Peterson
6. Kodai Senga

Orioles’ additions to their roster

Following the acquisition of Bassitt, excitement is building among the Orioles‘ fanbase ahead of the new season. However, spring training will serve as the initial proving ground for these newcomers as the team strives for a turnaround this season.

Here are the additions slated for the upcoming season:

• Chris Bassitt SP: Free Agent
• Pete Alonso 1B: Free Agent
• Shane Baz SP: Trade (TB)
• Ryan Helsley RP: Free Agent
• Taylor Ward OF: Trade (LAA)
• Zach Eflin SP: Free Agent
• Leody Taveras CF: Free Agent
• Blaze Alexander SS/2B: Trade (ARI)

According to Jake Rill from MLB.com, the Orioles are now eyeing free-agent ace Zac Gallen. “If the Orioles could secure Gallen on a two- or three-year deal, potentially featuring opt-outs and options, it would be prudent to offer a contract with a high average annual value,” Rill noted, emphasizing the boost a front-of-the-rotation arm like Gallen could provide.

Gallen is an established MLB pitcher capable of significantly enhancing a roster, boasting seven years of quality service with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Gallen’s impressive stats suggest he could be instrumental in the Orioles’ attempt to make a strong push this regular season.

With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Orioles are contemplating making a decisive move that could further solidify their lineup. Expectations run high as the franchise gears up to be led by former Mets star Alonso, after they finalize a deal with him during the offseason.

Potential franchises interested in Gallen

Although Gallen has several suitors for the upcoming MLB season, the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he played until 2025, are among the reported frontrunners to bring him back. Besides them, several other teams are actively involved in the pursuit of Gallen’s talents.

The Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Angels are amongst the MLB teams reportedly interested in acquiring the right-handed pitcher. Gallen remains focused on evaluating his options to determine his next MLB destination, with a potential return to Arizona still on the table for the upcoming season.

Gallen’s performance last season with the Diamondbacks

Despite delivering commendable performances with the Diamondbacks, Zach Gallen and the franchise have yet to reach a contract agreement. This leaves an opening for other teams to negotiate terms, aiming to finalize a deal before the trade deadline.

Here are Gallen’s statistics from his last season:

• Games Started: 33
• Record: 13–15
• ERA: 4.83
• Innings Pitched: 192.0
• Strikeouts: 175
• WHIP: 1.26
• Home Runs Allowed: 31 (Career high)
• Walks: 66

Verlander, the three-time Cy Young Award winner and former AL MVP, remains unsigned as he approaches his 43rd birthday and prepares for what would be his 21st MLB season. His track record as a durable innings-eater makes him an attractive option for a team looking to compete in the AL East.

MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported that the Orioles are considering Verlander as a potential addition to their rotation. According to Morosi, Baltimore is looking to add at least one more starting pitcher this offseason, with Verlander still available as an unsigned free agent, highlighting the team’s rotation-focused strategy.

Why Verlander could be a fit in Baltimore

Verlander posted a 3.85 ERA and 137 strikeouts over 29 starts in 2025 with the San Francisco Giants, showing he can still deliver innings and contribute meaningfully. His 152.0 innings pitched and season-long WAR of 1.2 underscore his durability, making him a strong candidate for a team seeking veteran leadership in the rotation.

Orioles’ offseason moves

Baltimore’s recent acquisitions signal a commitment to contend after finishing 75-87 last season. Adding a veteran like Verlander would complement its existing rotation and provide guidance for younger pitchers, reinforcing a team already reshaped through signings and trades.

While major franchises like the New York Mets, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Dodgers have secured the top free agents on the market, the Orioles are poised to make a significant splash of their own. According to a report by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Orioles could soon unveil a major player acquisition.

Nightengale noted on his X account, “Rival executives expect the Baltimore Orioles to be the next team to secure a front-line starter from the free-agent market, particularly now that the New York Mets are out of the running after acquiring Freddy Peralta.”

With several high-profile free agents still evaluating their next move, anticipation builds around who the Orioles will choose to complement Alonso. Known for his experience and talent, Alonso is set to lead the team in the forthcoming season.

Potential targets for the Orioles

The Orioles are linked to several notable figures in the offseason market, with reports consistently mentioning Framber Valdez as a top candidate, that was intended by the Yankees and Mets. Valdez was purportedly a target for the Mets prior to their acquisition of Freddy Peralta.

Potential Acquisitions for the Orioles Include:

• Sandy Alcantara (Marlins): The Marlins are in a “reset,” making Alcantara a prime trade candidate.
• Edward Cabrera (Marlins): This promising right-hander could be part of a trade involving Ryan Mountcastle.
• MacKenzie Gore (Nationals): The Orioles have been linked to Gore as a younger, left-handed option should Valdez negotiations falter.

Orioles’ projected lineup for next season

Despite uncertainties surrounding their next roster addition, the Orioles already feature a formidable lineup heading into the upcoming season. With Alonso’s expected impact, the team is set on chasing their World Series dreams.

Below is their projected lineup for the next season:

1. Taylor Ward LF
2. Adley Rutschman C
3. Gunnar Henderson SS
4. Pete Alonso 1B
5. Jordan Westburg 3B
6. Samuel Basallo DH
7. Colton Cowser RF
8. Jackson Holliday 2B
9. Leody Taveras CF