The last few years have been filled with stories about Baltimore’s young talent. The Orioles developed three youngsters into the top prospect in baseball. Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson and Jackson Holliday have all made their major league debut. Jordan Westburg, Colton Cowser, Samuel Basallo, and Coby Mayo have too.
Henderson immediately set the bar rather high, so it’s difficult to consider him a breakout candidate in 2026. Rutschman profiles more as a bounceback candidate at this point, and Westburg already has an All Star appearance on his resume.
Holliday fits the mold at only 22-years-old, but the infielder will begin the season on the IL with a broken hamate bone. Holliday underwent successful surgery, but the injury could lead to a reduction in power for an extended period.
Early blows to Westburg and Holliday brought Coby Mayo back into the mix. Once considered a likely trade candidate, Mayo could easily win the “breakout” award if he hits and finds a way to play a serviceable third base. Mayo hit 11 home runs in 263 at bats last season and slashed .301/.393/.548 in September.
Cowser will begin the year as the everyday center fielder. The “Milk Man” was named the 2024 American League Outstanding Rookie in the Player Choice Awards in 2024, but he struggled to stay healthy last season. Cowser holds legitimate power and a strong throwing arm, but he still has plenty of room to grow at the plate and in the field.
Basallo is the $67-million man with only 109 at bats under his belt. Both Basallo and Dylan Beavers figure to be strong contenders for the AL’s Rookie of the Year. Beavers skyrocketed up prospect lists after posting a .375 OBP over 35 games last season.
Blaze Alexander appears to be the favorite for everyday at bats with Westburg and Holliday sidelined. Alexander and Jeremiah Jackson will look to establish themselves as legitimate big leaguers early in the season.
Baltimore’s bullpen is filled with guys that could earn the nod. There’s some hype building around Anthony Nunez, and there’s a few lurking names in Norfolk’s starting rotation. The current rotation features mostly established arms, although the front office continues to boast about Shane Baz’s ceiling.
Can I interest you in anyone else? Heston Kjerstad? Cade Povich? There are plenty of talented players on this roster capable of taking another step forward. Who do you think will breakout above the rest?