Baltimore Orioles fans are entering the 2026 season with renewed anticipation as the organization inches closer to finalizing its roster ahead of Opening Day.

While there is still time for last-minute moves, trades, or injury-related adjustments, the core structure of the Orioles’ roster is already taking shape. From a mostly settled starting lineup to an evolving pitching staff, Baltimore appears poised to enter the new season with a blend of emerging young talent and experienced veterans.

As spring training approaches, enough information has surfaced to make informed projections about what the Orioles’ 2026 Opening Day roster could look like. Though changes are always possible, this early prediction offers a strong foundation for evaluating Baltimore’s roster construction and competitive outlook for the season ahead.

Projected Baltimore Orioles 2026 Opening Day Starting Lineup

The Orioles’ projected starting lineup for Opening Day 2026 appears relatively stable, with only minor uncertainty surrounding batting order placement.

The core of the lineup is built around a mix of rising stars and established contributors who have already secured their roles within the organization.

Projected starting lineup:

• Jackson Holliday (2B)

• Jordan Westburg (3B)

• Gunnar Henderson (SS)

• Pete Alonso (1B)

• Adley Rutschman (C)

• Taylor Ward (LF)

• Dylan Beavers (RF)

• Samuel Basallo (DH)

• Colton Cowser (CF)

The top half of the lineup looks particularly formidable. Jackson Holliday, Jordan Westburg, and Gunnar Henderson provide youth, athleticism, and offensive upside at the top of the order. Their alternating handedness adds strategic balance and creates difficult matchups for opposing pitchers.

Pete Alonso and Adley Rutschman anchor the middle of the lineup. Alonso’s power and run-producing ability complement Rutschman’s on-base skills and leadership behind the plate. Together, they form one of the most dangerous middle-of-the-order combinations in the American League.

The lower portion of the lineup may lean heavily left-handed, but it still offers significant potential. Dylan Beavers and Colton Cowser are both expected to receive extended opportunities to establish themselves as everyday contributors.

Meanwhile, highly touted prospect Samuel Basallo is projected to begin the season in the designated hitter role. Although he may initially hit near the bottom of the order, his offensive upside suggests he could quickly move up the lineup if he performs well early.

Overall, Baltimore’s projected starting lineup reflects a franchise transitioning into a competitive window built on homegrown talent and strategic acquisitions.

Orioles Bench Outlook: Depth With Some Uncertainty

While the starting lineup appears largely settled, the Orioles’ projected bench for 2026 carries more uncertainty and intrigue. Several players are competing for limited spots, and front-office decisions could still reshape this group before Opening Day.

Projected bench players:

• Ryan Mountcastle

• Ramón Urías

• Tyler O’Neill

• Leody Taveras

Ryan Mountcastle’s role remains a point of discussion. Once considered a cornerstone bat, he now appears more likely to begin the season in a reserve role unless a trade materializes. His future with the organization could depend on roster flexibility and potential trade opportunities.

Ramón Urías is rumored to be a possible reunion candidate for Baltimore, which could complicate the bench picture. If he returns, his defensive versatility would make him a valuable utility option capable of covering multiple infield positions.

Tyler O’Neill and Leody Taveras provide outfield depth and defensive versatility. Taveras, in particular, offers strong center-field defense, which could prove valuable in late-game situations or when giving Colton Cowser a rest.

One notable omission from the projected Opening Day bench is Jeremiah Jackson, whose breakout performance last season made him a fan favorite.

However, his minor league options may lead the Orioles to keep him in Triple-A for roster flexibility. Coby Mayo also remains on the fringe of the roster, though positional redundancy and limited flexibility could keep him off the initial 26-man squad.

Orioles Starting Rotation Projection for 2026

The Orioles’ starting rotation remains one of the most closely watched aspects of the roster heading into the 2026 season. While the group already features several promising arms, ongoing speculation about a potential blockbuster signing continues to dominate headlines.

Projected starting rotation:

• Trevor Rogers (LHP)

• Framber Valdez (LHP)

• Kyle Bradish (RHP)

• Shane Baz (RHP)

• Zach Eflin (RHP)

Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish form a strong foundation at the top of the rotation. Rogers delivered an exceptional performance last season, posting an impressive ERA despite limited innings due to injury. Bradish continues to develop into a reliable frontline starter with the ability to dominate when at his best.

The biggest storyline surrounding the Orioles’ rotation is the potential addition of left-hander Framber Valdez. Persistent rumors linking Baltimore to the two-time All-Star suggest that the organization may be on the verge of a major signing. If Valdez joins the rotation, he would immediately elevate the staff and position Baltimore as a serious contender in the American League East.

Shane Baz represents a high-upside arm who could emerge as a breakout performer if he stays healthy and consistent.

Meanwhile, Zach Eflin currently holds a slight edge over Dean Kremer for the final rotation spot, largely due to roster considerations and minor league options.

If this rotation comes together as projected, it would represent a significant improvement over last season and provide the Orioles with a balanced mix of experience, potential, and depth.

Baltimore Orioles Bullpen Projection

The bullpen is another area where Baltimore has made notable investments, signaling a clear intent to strengthen late-game reliability heading into 2026.

Projected bullpen:

• Ryan Helsley (Closer)

• Keegan Akin

• Andrew Kittredge

• Kade Strowd

• Colin Selby

• Yennier Cano

• Dietrich Enns

• Tyler Wells

Ryan Helsley is expected to assume the closer role after receiving a substantial financial commitment from the Orioles. His presence at the back end of the bullpen should provide stability and confidence in late-inning situations.

Keegan Akin and Andrew Kittredge bring veteran experience, while younger arms such as Kade Strowd and Colin Selby offer upside and flexibility. Yennier Cano remains an intriguing bullpen option with the potential to contribute in high-leverage situations.

Several bullpen spots remain fluid and could change based on spring training performance. Still, the current projection suggests a unit capable of supporting a competitive team throughout the season.

Final Thoughts on the Orioles’ 2026 Opening Day Roster

As the 2026 MLB season approaches, the Baltimore Orioles appear to be assembling a roster capable of competing at a higher level than in recent years. With a talented young core, strategic veteran additions, and the potential signing of a top-tier pitcher like Framber Valdez, Baltimore’s outlook is increasingly optimistic.

While roster projections can shift quickly due to trades, injuries, or unexpected performances, this early look at the Orioles’ likely Opening Day roster offers valuable insight into the team’s direction.

If key players perform to expectations and the pitching staff stabilizes, Baltimore could emerge as one of the most intriguing teams to watch in the American League during the 2026 season.