Orioles’ International Signings Updated; 20 Spring Games on MASN

This article dives into a huge moment for the Baltimore Orioles as they keep reinventing themselves as a modern talent-acquisition machine. From a record-breaking international signing class to a long-term deal for a promising young catcher, the Orioles are making it clear: their window to compete is wide open.

Orioles Make a Statement With Samuel Basallo Extension

The biggest headline came right after catcher Samuel Basallo stepped onto a major-league field for the first time. Baltimore jumped at the chance to secure him, handing Basallo an eight-year, $67 million extension.

For a team once called overly cautious, this move shows growing confidence in picking and keeping top international talent. It’s a bold step, and honestly, it feels overdue.

A Cornerstone Behind the Plate

Basallo’s extension means more than just dollars and years on paper. The Orioles clearly believe he can stick as a long-term partner for All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman.

That kind of stability at catcher? Not many teams get to say they have it.

International Signing Period Shows Orioles’ Growth

The team’s evolution stood out even more on the first day of the international signing period. Baltimore used its entire $8,034,900 bonus pool on high-upside prospects, spreading the money around but still grabbing some big names.

Jose Luis Acevedo Leads a Historic Class

Shortstop Jose Luis Acevedo led the pack, landing a $2.3 million bonus—the biggest international signing bonus in Orioles history. Baseball America quickly ranked Acevedo as high as No. 11 among international prospects.

Other notable signings included:

Several of these players also landed on MLB Pipeline prospect lists. Baltimore isn’t just throwing money around—it’s picking targets carefully.

Scouting Infrastructure Paying Dividends

Koby Perez, the vice president of international scouting, said the team’s success comes from more staff and longer looks at players. The Orioles are starting evaluations earlier and digging in deeper than they used to.

A More Modern Front Office Approach

This long-term scouting approach lets Baltimore compete with clubs that have always been aggressive internationally. It’s a big shift from the old days.

Ownership and the front office finally seem to be pulling in the same direction.

Adding Depth and Making Roster Moves

The Orioles didn’t just focus on prospects. They also filled immediate needs by signing veteran catcher Sam Huff to a minor-league deal and sending him to Triple-A Norfolk.

That’s a bit of insurance behind Basallo and Rutschman. You never know when you’ll need it.

Pitching and Roster Adjustments

Baltimore also claimed left-hander José Suarez off waivers from the Braves. Suarez brings seven years of big-league experience to the mix.

To clear a spot, the team designated outfielder Marco Luciano for assignment. Roster churn is just part of the game if you want to stay sharp.

Expanded Spring Training Coverage for Fans

Fans are going to feel the Orioles’ momentum, too. MASN will air a record 20 spring training exhibition games in 2026, up from only eight last year.

More Access at Ed Smith Stadium

The slate runs from Feb. 20 through March 22, with five games on the road included. Fans heading to Ed Smith Stadium for workouts will get free admission to open practices, starting about four hours before first pitch.

Looking Ahead to Opening Day

All these moves lead up to Opening Day on March 26. The Orioles will welcome the Minnesota Twins to Camden Yards.

The farm system looks stronger than it has in years. Fans seem more engaged, and the front office finally has a long-term plan you can actually see taking shape.

Baltimore heads into the season ready to do more than just compete. They’re aiming to really contend this time.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Updating Orioles’ international signings, 20 spring training games to air on MASN (updated)