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.

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)