Orioles Notebook: Latest News, Injuries and Roster Moves

This article explores several storylines shaping the Baltimore Orioles as they get ready for the new season. From Gunnar Henderson’s spot at shortstop to the arrival of bench coach Donnie Ecker, it’s a mix of talent, clubhouse culture, and long-term planning—plus a minor roster move tossed in for good measure.

Gunnar Henderson’s Role and the World Baseball Classic Factor

When he’s healthy, Gunnar Henderson is the Orioles’ everyday shortstop. That’s a pretty clear sign of trust from the team.

But with Team USA’s roster for the World Baseball Classic (WBC) coming together, there’s a twist. Henderson might not start at shortstop every day during the tournament.

Orioles manager Mark DeRosa—who’s also leading Team USA—has already talked about staying flexible. After what he saw in 2023, DeRosa plans to get creative with lineups so players like Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr. can both contribute without stepping on each other’s toes.

Preparation and Competition

Henderson isn’t taking chances. He’s starting his prep early, putting extra work into both hitting and fielding with the WBC in mind.

The 23-year-old knows international play means real competition. He put it plainly: playing time will go to “whoever’s honestly swinging it better.” That attitude says a lot about his maturity and the culture Baltimore’s been building—accountability, plain and simple.

Donnie Ecker Brings Energy and Vision to Baltimore

The coaching staff got a shot of energy with new bench coach Donnie Ecker, who comes over after four seasons with the Texas Rangers. Ecker made it clear the job is about more than just strategy.

He wants to dive into Baltimore itself and really connect with the community. For Ecker, understanding the people behind the team matters as much as anything on the field.

A Shared Philosophy with Craig Albernaz

Ecker and new manager Craig Albernaz have more in common than their resumes show. Ecker said a quick phone call was all it took to realize they were on the same page, both in direction and philosophy.

That mindset comes through when Ecker talks about the roster. He’s a fan of the Orioles’ depth, their personalities, and how they let players show emotion—something he thinks helps everyone play their best.

Creating a Hostile Camden Yards

Thinking back to his playoff run with the Rangers, Ecker called Camden Yards the most electric, intimidating stadium he’s seen. Now, he wants to use that energy for the Orioles.

He wants Baltimore to be a place where opponents feel uneasy from the first pitch. With a young roster and fans who actually show up, Ecker’s convinced that’s doable.

Drafting, Development, and an “Extra Hungry” Club

Ecker praised the Orioles for their success in drafting and developing players, calling it the backbone of their turnaround. He’s grateful for a group that isn’t satisfied with what they’ve already done.

He calls this an “extra hungry” team—one that expects more from itself and knows what kind of standard it needs to hit.

Roster Moves and Organizational Updates

Off the field, the Orioles made a small but notable transaction. They traded former catcher Alex Jackson to the Minnesota Twins for minor-leaguer Payton Eeles.

Jackson had signed a $1.35 million deal with Minnesota to avoid arbitration. Now he gets a fresh opportunity in a new organization.

Former Orioles minor-league manager Kyle Moore also landed a new role. He was named manager of Triple-A Round Rock after working as the Triple-A Iowa bench coach last season.

It’s just another reminder—Baltimore’s influence really does stretch far across pro baseball.

 
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