Title: New Orioles Manager Craig Albernaz Poised to Revive Team’s Fortunes
In a move aimed at reshaping their future, the Baltimore Orioles are on the brink of securing Craig Albernaz as their new manager for the upcoming 2026 season. This decision comes as a pivotal moment for the Orioles, who have experienced a significant downturn after promising seasons in 2023 and 2024.
During their peak, the Orioles showcased a young and talented roster, with rising stars like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman leading the charge. They were once the talk of the town, boasting the best farm system in MLB, headlined by top prospect Jackson Holliday. However, their fortunes took a sharp decline post-All-Star break in 2024, leading to a string of disappointing performances.
The dismissal of former manager Brandon Hyde after a lackluster start to the 2025 season highlighted the team’s struggles. Though interim manager Tony Mansolino steadied the ship to some extent, the Orioles continued to face challenges on multiple fronts. Henderson, a standout performer, saw a dip in his offensive output in 2025, while Rutschman’s once-promising career trajectory has hit roadblocks due to injuries and declining performance.
Moreover, the Orioles’ reluctance to make significant moves in the free-agent market has left the team lacking the necessary firepower to compete in the fiercely competitive AL East division. The focus on developing young talent has been commendable, but the absence of seasoned players has hindered the team’s progress.
With Albernaz set to take the helm, the Orioles are banking on his leadership to unlock the full potential of their core players. The trio of Henderson, Holliday, and Rutschman holds the key to the team’s resurgence, and Albernaz’s task will be to harness their abilities and mold them into a formidable force in the lineup.
As the Orioles look to turn the tide and reclaim their status as contenders, the appointment of Albernaz represents a fresh start and a chance to chart a new course for the team. Baseball fans will be eagerly watching to see how this move impacts the Orioles’ future trajectory and the performance of their key players on the field.



Source: bleacherreport.com









