Baltimore Orioles Hire Cleveland Assistant Albernaz as Manager

The Baltimore Orioles have officially named Craig Albernaz as their new manager. This move signals a fresh chapter for the franchise after a rough 2024 season.

Albernaz turns 43 this week and brings years of coaching experience across Major League Baseball. He’s got a reputation for building winning teams and developing talent.

The Orioles let go of Brandon Hyde and wrapped up the season with Tony Mansolino as interim manager. Team president Mike Elias says Albernaz is the right leader to revive Baltimore’s playoff hopes.

Craig Albernaz’s Path to the Orioles Dugout

Before coming to Baltimore, Albernaz worked as the associate manager for the Cleveland Guardians. He earned that spot after serving as their bench coach in 2024.

His rise in Cleveland showed his deep understanding of the game and his knack for connecting with players. The Orioles seem to value those traits as they look for a turnaround.

A Diverse Coaching Background

Albernaz’s coaching journey has taken him through several organizations. From 2020 to 2023, he spent time with the San Francisco Giants as both a bullpen and catching coach.

He helped guide their pitching staff and improve defense behind the plate. Before his Major League coaching days, he made a mark in the Tampa Bay Rays system, even picking up Midwest League Manager of the Year honors in 2018 after leading the Bowling Green Hot Rods to a championship.

An Experienced Leader for a Team in Need

The Orioles had a turbulent 2024 season and finished last in the AL East with a 75–87 record. Hyde’s dismissal in May left the team searching for stability.

Mansolino kept the club competitive as interim manager, but they couldn’t spark a late-season push. With Albernaz stepping in, the Orioles have picked a leader known for strategy, player development, and a drive for the postseason.

Mike Elias’s Vote of Confidence

Team president Mike Elias didn’t hold back when praising Albernaz. He called him “the right person” to guide the Orioles back into contention.

Albernaz has a history of working with young rosters and improving individual skills. There’s hope he’ll blend Baltimore’s emerging talent with seasoned veterans to build a winner.

From Somerset to Camden Yards

Albernaz grew up in Somerset, Massachusetts, and his baseball roots run deep. He starred at Eckerd College before starting a pro career as a catcher in the Tampa Bay Rays system, reaching Triple-A.

His years as a player gave him a feel for clubhouse dynamics and the grind of a long season. That kind of experience can separate good managers from great ones, honestly.

Proven at Every Level

Albernaz has shown he can adapt and succeed, from minor league championships to Major League coaching jobs. He’s worked with pitchers, catchers, and position players, giving him a broad view of the game.

That versatility could come in handy as the Orioles shape their approach for 2025. It’s not easy to find someone who’s seen it all.

What This Means for the Orioles’ Future

This hire feels like more than just a leadership change—it’s a strategic pivot for a franchise hoping to move from rebuilding to real postseason contention. Orioles fans should expect a focus on player development, a more aggressive style, and a clubhouse that values accountability and resilience.

Key Benefits Albernaz Brings to Baltimore

• Player Development Expertise: He’s got a real knack for bringing out the best in young players. You can see his track record—these guys hit their stride under his watch.
• Versatile Coaching Experience: Albernaz has handled just about everything, from guiding pitchers to tightening up defense. He’s not afraid to get into the weeds with any part of the game.
• Winning Pedigree: He’s been part of championship teams in the minors and has stepped up as a leader in the big leagues. That’s the kind of experience you want in your corner.
• Strong Communication Skills: He knows how to connect with players from all walks of life. Building trust? He makes it look easy.

Fans will finally get to see Albernaz in Orioles gear on November 4. The team’s rolling out the red carpet for him at a Camden Yards news conference.

After that, it’s down to business—he’ll have to shape a roster that can break Baltimore’s rough streak and maybe, just maybe, bring back that electric playoff buzz the city’s been missing.

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Here is the source article for this story: Orioles hire Cleveland assistant Albernaz as manager after finishing last in AL East