Shane Baz and the Baltimore Orioles: A Multi-Year Deal
Right-handed pitcher Shane Baz and the Baltimore Orioles have formalized a five-year agreement, strengthening the team’s starting rotation for the long term. This strategic move secures the presence of an arm with great potential, acquired through a trade during the winter.
The contract, valued at $68 million, represents a significant bet by the Orioles, who are confident that Baz, despite his recent injury problems, can reach his peak performance and become a star pitcher.
Baz, 26, has pitched a total of 286 innings in the Major Leagues due to various injuries. Last season, with 166.1 innings pitched for Tampa Bay, he showed flashes of his potential, which motivated the Orioles to invest in his talent.
With a fastball that hovers around 96 miles per hour and can reach 99, in addition to four other pitches, including an effective knuckle curve, Baz possesses an arsenal comparable to the best pitchers in the league. Baltimore made a trade that included four prospects and the number 33 pick in the 2026 draft to secure his incorporation into the rotation, which was renewed during the winter.
This contract reflects the Orioles’ confidence in Baz’s recovery and future. Selected in the 2017 draft by Pittsburgh, he was traded to the Rays in the Chris Archer trade and, in 2021, seemed on his way to becoming a star in Tampa Bay. However, the following season, he underwent two elbow surgeries, including a reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament, which prevented him from playing the entire 2023 season and half of 2024.
Baz hasn’t missed an opening since then, and although his 4.87 ERA last year was above the league average, his 176 strikeouts suggest the return of his best form and the possibility of positioning himself at the top of the rotation.
The Baltimore Orioles’ rotation, which was a weak point the previous year, has notably improved. Left-handed pitcher Trevor Rogers pitched seven scoreless innings on Opening Day, while Kyle Bradish showed a great performance after his return from Tommy John surgery. In addition, Baltimore incorporated veterans Chris Bassitt and Zach Eflin to complete the pitching staff.
Baz is expected to be at the center of the rotation. The agreement, which will begin this year, will cover three seasons of arbitration and two years of free agency, ensuring the pitcher’s stay beyond the 2028 season, when he would originally reach free agency.
