According to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, the deal includes an opt-out clause that would allow Pham to become a free agent in early June if Baltimore does not add him to the MLB roster. The veteran is hoping for a fresh start after struggling offensively during his short time in New York.

Pham appeared in nine games with the Mets in 2026 and went hitless in 14 plate appearances before being designated for assignment in late April. He later elected free agency after clearing waivers.

Pham gets another chance with Orioles organization

The veteran outfielder remained unsigned for most of the offseason before eventually agreeing to a minor league deal with the Mets near the end of spring training.

After working his way through extended spring training and a few minor league appearances, New York promoted Pham to the active roster in April. However, he was unable to produce consistently at the plate during his limited opportunities.

Baltimore now gives the longtime MLB veteran another chance to prove he can still contribute offensively at the highest level.

Veteran outfielder approaching notable MLB milestone

If Pham reaches the Orioles’ active roster and appears in a game, Baltimore would become the 11th team of his major league career. That achievement would place him among a small group of players to suit up for at least 11 different MLB franchises. For now, the focus remains on getting his 2026 season back on track and earning another opportunity in the majors.

“Max Fried exited the game with left elbow posterior soreness, the Yankees announced. He will be examined by team physician Dr. Chris Ahmad and undergo imaging tomorrow in New York,“ Hoch posted to his X account regarding the veteran’s abrupt departure.

Following the early exit, the Yankees turned to Paul Blackburn and Ryan Harborough, though the bullpen struggled to stabilize the game in Fried’s absence. All eyes are now on the results of tomorrow’s tests, as the Yankees’ pitching depth faces a massive test ahead of the remainder of the series and the highly anticipated Subway Series against the New York Mets.

The discomfort surfaced during the fourth inning, with Fried visibly favoring his arm before heading straight for the tunnel. The timing is particularly complicated for manager Aaron Boone, who had just clarified Jose Caballero’s long-term role despite Anthony Volpe’s much-anticipated season debut.

Fried struggles prior to injury exit

The Orioles’ offense made it clear that the pitcher didn’t matter, tagging both Fried and Blackburn early to jump out to a 3-0 lead. Before his abrupt departure, Fried’s performance was far from the dominant outing the Yankees had envisioned for their high-profile starter.

Fried’s final line was underwhelming: 3.0 innings pitched, five hits allowed, and three earned runs on 61 pitches. He managed just two strikeouts against one walk, leaving the Yankees in a hole and forcing the front office to reassess their pitching strategy for the grueling stretch ahead.

Ultimately, the Yankees dropped the series 2-1 to Baltimore, and the concern surrounding their rotation depth continues to mount. However, a silver lining may be on the horizon, as Boone suggested ace Gerrit Cole’s highly anticipated return to the mound could happen sooner than originally projected.

According to reporter Bryan Hoch, the injury occurred during Sunday’s series finale against the Brewers when the shortstop was diving back into the bag. Hoch reported on X that while Jose Caballero will return to New York after tonight’s game vs Orioles to see team physician Dr. Chris Ahmad, the player remains hopeful as he does not believe the finger is fractured.

Further updates from Hoch indicated that although Caballero has managed to take some swings, his ability to field remains the primary hurdle. “He could appear off the bench, but hasn’t thrown,” Hoch shared, adding that manager Aaron Boone mentioned hitting sessions went well, yet the team is proceeding with caution by scheduling an MRI to rule out structural damage.

Caballero so far this season

Before this setback, Caballero had been a spark plug for the Bronx Bombers, slashing .259 with four home runs and 13 RBIs across 40 games. His speed has been a game-changer on the basepaths, where he has already swiped 13 bases, providing the kind of dynamic athleticism that has helped the Yankees maintain a strong standing in the AL East early in the year.

The timing of the injury is less than ideal, as the Yankees are looking to find their footing again following a tough stretch. Yankees missing another player could complicate their situation after a recent loss to the Brewers, especially one who has provided such high-level defensive stability and bottom-of-the-order production during the first two months of the campaign.

While Max Schuemann stepped in to fill the void at shortstop for the series opener in Baltimore, the team is clearly hoping for a “day-to-day” diagnosis. If the MRI returns clean, the Yankees could have their primary shortstop back in action soon, avoiding a lengthy stint on the injured list that would test the depth of a roster already dealing with various bumps and bruises.

Amid recent controversial Pete Alonso comments on David Stearns, Orioles manager Craig Albernaz explained that Povich left the contest due to discomfort in his throwing arm. According to Albernaz, the pitcher experienced tightness in his triceps area near the outside of the elbow and will undergo further testing.

“He had some tricep lateral elbow tightness. We’re going to get an MRI on him tomorrow. He said he felt it in the second, and then it really tightened up on him in the third,” Albernaz said via MLB.com.

Povich’s early exit came after just three innings of work, forcing Baltimore to rely heavily on its bullpen for the remainder of the game. The situation is especially concerning given the Orioles’ growing list of pitching injuries, which has already stretched their depth significantly during the season.

Orioles rotation depth takes another hit

Baltimore has been forced to navigate multiple injuries across its pitching staff, and Povich’s status now adds further uncertainty. The club is already without several arms, leaving manager Albernaz with limited flexibility in both the rotation and bullpen.

Bullpen steps up amid injury concerns

Albernaz praised the relief effort following Povich’s departure, highlighting strong performances across multiple innings. “The ‘pen did an outstanding job. Canó was awesome coming in and eating up two innings… same thing with Enns, Akin getting out of the inning, and Kittredge looked good too,” he said.

However, with multiple starters already sidelined, Baltimore now awaits MRI results as it hopes Povich’s injury does not add another long-term absence to the rotation.

Cody Bellinger and Jasson Domínguez round out the top of the lineup, both of whom have provided steady offensive production throughout this successful stretch. While the team is pleased with the recent performance of José Caballero, the coaching staff is using their best available power hitters today to ensure they finish the series strong.

Judge enters the game with a .400 average against the opposing starter, while Jazz Chisholm Jr. has been on fire with three hits in six at-bats in this matchup. Fans have been more than pleased with the production at the plate, which has helped the team continue to dominate the AL East at 23-11.

Shane Baz vs Yankees: A tough challenge for Baltimore

Shane Baz takes the mound for the Orioles today, facing a Yankees lineup that has historically seen his pitches very well across several previous encounters. Bellinger holds a perfect 1.000 average against Baz with a home run, while Austin Wells has also dominated the right-hander with a .750 average and a 2.333 OPS.

The middle of the order features Goldschmidt and Chisholm Jr., both of whom have notched home runs and multiple RBIs against Baz in their careers. These statistics suggest the Yankees have a clear tactical advantage as they look to extend their winning streak and finalize the sweep against their division rivals.

The bottom of the lineup is anchored by Ryan McMahon and Caballero, providing depth and speed to a batting order that has been relentless all week. With Cam Schlittler on the mound for New York, the team feels confident that this balanced attack will provide enough run support to secure another victory at home.

However, the Orioles have done this a handful of times. They also did it on August 14th, 1998 where both grand slams were hit by Chris Hoiles. In June 26, 1970, Hall of Famer Frank Robinson also hit back-to-back grand slams. The first time they did it was back in May 9, 1961, with Jim Gentile hitting two grand slams in the first two innings vs Twins. Two players also hit grand slams in the same game in 2015.

Hence, this is the first time since 2015 that two different players have hit grand slams in the same game for the Orioles. Hence, they etched their names in the history books of the O’s at the Astros expense.

How many times has a team hit two grand slams in the same MLB game?

The Yankees have done it (1936), as well as the Red Sox (1939, 1946, 1999, 2003), Orioles (1961, 1970, 1998, 2015, 2026), Braves (1966), Tigers (1968), White Sox (1995), Cardinals (1999), and Nationals (2009).

The most iconic game on this feature was in 1999. Fernando Tatis Sr. hit two grand slams in just one inning. That feat has never been replicated. Another record that hasn’t been matched is the Yankees hitting three grand slams in a single game against the Athletics in 2011.

What is a grand slam in baseball?

A grand slam is a home run hit when all three bases are loaded, hence it results in four runs scored. This is the maximum possible in a single play. On average, a grand slam occurs once every 1,219 at-bats in the MLB. As of April 2026, there have been 24 grand slams so far this season.

The deal sends 20-year-old prospect Axel Perez to Baltimore, signaling a long-term development move for both organizations. While not a headline-grabbing transaction, it reflects the Dodgers’ consistent strategy of adding arms with upside. McDermott, 27, was once a well-regarded prospect but has yet to establish himself at the major league level.

After Shohei Ohtani’s in-game tip helps Dalton Rushing, the Dodgers once again showed how their player‑development system can elevate talent in unexpected ways.

McDermott’s track record at the MLB level is limited. He made his debut with the Orioles in 2024 but struggled in his lone appearance before returning to the minors.

His time at Triple-A Norfolk has also been inconsistent, posting a 6.75 ERA across five outings this season. Despite those numbers, the Dodgers appear to see something worth developing, a common theme in their approach to roster building.

Orioles add young prospect in return

For the Orioles, the return centers on long-term upside. Perez, an international signing from the Dominican Republic, brings youth and projection despite limited experience.

He appeared in 10 games in the Dominican Summer League in 2025, finishing with a 5.48 ERA. While still early in his development, Baltimore gains a controllable arm who could grow within its system.

The trade may not shift the balance of power immediately, but for the Dodgers, it fits a familiar pattern, acquiring under-the-radar talent that could eventually contribute at a higher level.

“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.