Bassitt's Back Issue Cost Him Two-Plus Months in 2026
The veteran righty went on the IL in early June and didn't return until mid-August, raising durability questions heading into free agency.
Chris Bassitt was placed on the injured list with back discomfort in early June and did not return until mid-August, missing more than two months. He finished with just 20 appearances and 102 innings, well below his typical workload of 27-plus appearances and 144-plus innings. His velocity and ERA improved markedly after returning, suggesting the rest helped. The back issue will be a factor teams weigh as he enters free agency at age 38.
More on the Orioles wire.
Baltimore Orioles face crowded offseason agenda after 79-82 finish
The Orioles ended 2026 at 79-82, fourth in the AL East, and now face layered option decisions, non-tender calls, and roster questions before a targeted return to contention in 2027.
Shane Baz Locked Up by Orioles on 5-Year, $68MM Deal
Baltimore secured the righty starter through 2030 after acquiring him from Tampa Bay in an intradivision trade.
Zach Eflin hopes to stay with Orioles after Tommy John surgery ends his 2026 season
Eflin, who underwent Tommy John surgery in April, is expected to be bought out of his $25MM mutual option; per Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com, he would "love to stay" in Baltimore.
Westburg Return Timeline Unclear After Missing Full Season
The Orioles' third baseman missed all of 2026 and questions remain about how quickly he can return to form in 2027.
Jordan Westburg begins hitting progression as Orioles weigh his 2027 role
Westburg, who missed all of 2026 with an oblique strain and Tommy John surgery in May, has reportedly started a hitting progression — though his 2027 timeline remains vague.
Orioles Prospect Ike Irish Recovering From Torn Meniscus
Baltimore's 2025 first-round pick tore his meniscus in late July and is using the Arizona Fall League to make up lost at-bats.