Orioles Pursuing More Contract Extensions for Young Core

The Baltimore Orioles are signaling a bold new direction under their relatively new ownership group, led by chairman and CEO David Rubenstein. At a press conference announcing top prospect Samuel Basallo’s contract extension, Rubenstein made it clear he wants to lock in more of the club’s young talent for the long haul.

This commitment to long-term deals marks a real departure from the franchise’s previous approach under Peter Angelos. It’s sparking plenty of intrigue among fans and analysts about what this means for key players like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman.

A Shift in Orioles’ Contract Philosophy

For over a decade, the Orioles hesitated to hand out meaningful long-term extensions. The last major deal was way back in 2012 with center fielder Adam Jones.

Since then, the team stuck with short-term arrangements, even during playoff-contending seasons. Peter Angelos often kept young stars on short deals, which frustrated a fan base desperate for stability.

The Rubenstein Era Begins

Rubenstein’s group bought the team in 2024, and he seems determined to change that image. He stressed that ownership is financially ready to invest in players for the long term, calling Basallo’s extension the first of “several” to come.

By securing Basallo early, the Orioles retain one of their brightest young stars. It also sends a message to other players and the rest of the league: the team is ready to spend to compete.

The Potential Next Deals

Two names dominate speculation over who might be next: Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman. Both are cornerstones of the Orioles’ roster, but their situations are pretty different.

Henderson, represented by high-powered agent Scott Boras, has said he’s willing to listen to offers. Still, Boras often guides his clients toward free agency to chase top-market deals.

The Arbitration Factor for Henderson

Henderson’s value will rise with each successful season. Arbitration will quickly make him one of the more expensive young players in baseball.

Any delay in negotiations could cost the Orioles millions down the line. Locking Henderson in now would help stabilize payroll costs and keep one of MLB’s most dynamic young infielders in Baltimore.

The Rutschman Puzzle

When asked about potential extensions, Adley Rutschman declined to discuss where talks stand. He did welcome the Basallo deal, which has led to questions about how the team will handle having two elite young catchers.

Some saw the Basallo signing as a possible precursor to moving on from Rutschman. Others point out that both players could thrive in the same lineup.

Positional Flexibility Could Be the Key

Interim manager Tony Mansolino noted Basallo’s versatility—being able to catch, play first base, or serve as a designated hitter—makes it easy to picture both players coexisting. Still, an extension for Rutschman would be a more complicated commitment for the Orioles.

Not only would the cost be significant, but Rutschman’s offensive numbers have dipped in recent seasons. That might complicate his long-term valuation.

• Basallo’s extension: A significant step toward a long-term competitive roster.
• Ownership commitment: Rubenstein vows more deals are coming.
• Core player decisions ahead: Henderson’s arbitration value rising; Rutschman’s role evolving.
• Potential era shift: Moving away from the short-term deal mindset of the Angelos era.

Looking Ahead

If Rubenstein keeps his word, the Orioles might finally start acting like the Braves or Rays—those teams that actually lock up their young stars before anyone else can snatch them away.

Moves like that could do more than just improve the team on the field. They might even wake up a fan base that’s been desperate for a real contender.

There are still plenty of questions. Henderson’s future hangs in the air, and honestly, nobody really knows what to make of Rutschman’s offense yet.

But the vibe has shifted. The Orioles seem ready to put long-term deals for their best young players at the top of the list.

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Here is the source article for this story: Rubenstein: Orioles Hoping For More Extensions With Young Players