From The Banner · Andy Kostka · · 3m
Orioles Players Identify 2026 Season Failures
Orioles players pinpoint key flaws in 2026 season after second straight losing year.
In brief
Orioles players pinpoint key flaws in 2026 season after second straight losing year. Orioles players identified poor team chemistry, inconsistent execution, and defensive errors as critical issues that led to their second consecutive losing season in 2026. Originally reported by The Banner.
Orioles players meet to discuss 2026 season
Orioles players filed into the clubhouse at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, and somebody closed the door.
Carlos Narváez identifies team issues
Carlos Narváez, the catcher who joined the organization a few days earlier, requested a team meeting after Boston’s recent struggles.
Narváez’s message for improvement
Narváez said, 'I care about my stats, of course, but if you care about your stats, you forget about winning, you get frustrated, you won’t figure out things. Play for the guy next to you. Play to win. And then everything will turn around and by the end of the season, you’ll see you fixed that, you fixed this, because wins fix everything'.
“I care about my stats, of course, but if you care about your stats, you forget about winning, you get frustrated, you won’t figure out things. Play for the guy next to you. Play to win. And then everything will turn around and by the end of the season, you’ll see you fixed that, you fixed this, because wins fix everything”
Team’s defensive struggles
The Orioles allowed the most unearned runs in all of MLB with shoddy defense and a 25% strikeout rate, the third-highest in the majors.
Players’ lack of consistency
Players admitted they struggled with consistency, failing to win four straight games until July and experiencing a tough spot in the middle of the season.
Manager and front office response
Manager Craig Albernaz and president of baseball operations Mike Elias pledged to learn from the 2026 season and improve for next year.
Chris Bassitt’s leadership plan
Chris Bassitt, a pending free agent, emphasized that players must set standards starting from the minors to improve the organization.
Players’ commitment to change
Players like Gunnar Henderson and Pete Alonso agreed that better mental focus and teamwork are critical for improvement.
2026 season results
The Orioles finished their second straight losing season at 79-82 with players and front office pledging to learn from it.
Key players for 2027
Gunnar Henderson, Pete Alonso, Shane Baz, and Kyle Bradish are expected to lead the Orioles’ improvement efforts in 2027.
Orioles’ defensive lapses
Players admitted to making costly errors, including dropped pop-ups and defensive miscues that cost them games.
Red Sox sweep impact
The Orioles were swept by the Red Sox in four games after reaching .500 with a win against the Rockies on Aug. 31.
Players’ future focus
Players believe the window for contention remains open with talented players like Alonso staying for four more seasons.
Bassitt’s leadership vision
Chris Bassitt stressed that players must take responsibility for winning, with the minor leagues following their lead.
2027 season outlook
The Orioles aim to improve their team culture and execution through player-led changes starting in 2027.
Orioles’ 2026 season summary
The Orioles finished their second straight losing season at 79-82 with players and front office pledging to learn from it.
What to remember
Orioles players identified poor team chemistry, inconsistent execution, and defensive errors as critical issues that led to their second consecutive losing season in 2026.
