Spring training often feels like a warm-up act, but for the Baltimore Orioles on February 24, 2026, it was anything but routine. While one squad was busy dismantling the Minnesota Twins in Fort Myers, the real fireworks were happening in Sarasota, where Chris Bassitt, the Orioles' newest veteran, was stealing the show with his first live batting practice—and some unforgettable trash talk.
The Orioles had split their squad for the day, sending a team to Fort Myers to face the Twins. The game kicked off with a bang as the Orioles exploded for a six-run first inning, setting the stage for a commanding 10-5 victory. Leody Tavares was the undisputed star, going 3-for-4 with two doubles, two runs scored, two RBIs, and a stolen base. Luis Vázquez wasn’t far behind, contributing two hits, including a double, and a stolen base of his own. Coby Mayo and Jeremiah Jackson kept the momentum going, with Mayo adding two singles, a run, and an RBI, while Jackson went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a run scored. On the mound, Albert Suárez started with two innings, allowing one run on three hits and a walk, though he didn’t notch a strikeout. Ryan Helsley, making his Orioles spring debut, delivered a scoreless inning. Helsley, who’s reportedly added a splitter to his repertoire, hopes the new pitch will help him neutralize left-handed hitters—a weakness that haunted him during his time with the Mets.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the Fort Myers squad was turning heads, the real intrigue was unfolding at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Chris Bassitt, fresh off signing a one-year, $18.5 million deal with Baltimore, was facing Orioles hitters in his first live BP session. Among them was Pete Alonso, his former Mets teammate and a notorious trash-talker. Alonso, never one to hold back, accused Bassitt of “ducking” him to pitch to left-handed Gunnar Henderson instead. Bassitt, grinning, fired back, “I ain’t ducking,” before inducing a groundout from Alonso on the very first pitch. Later, when Alonso returned to the plate, he managed only a fly ball to center, prompting a groan from the slugger. “You knew what was coming,” Bassitt quipped. “I told you, ‘One pitch.’”
When asked about the exchange afterward, Bassitt simply smiled and said, “Pete knows. Yeah, Pete knows.” The playful rivalry between the two wasn’t just entertaining—it was a highlight for teammates and fans, injecting a much-needed dose of levity into the grind of preseason.
And this is the part most people miss: Beyond the on-field antics, Bassitt’s arrival in Baltimore has brought more than just a strong arm. The 11-year veteran, who posted a 3.96 ERA in 32 games for the Blue Jays last season, is expected to stabilize a rotation that’s been heavy on potential but light on proven success. Manager Craig Albernaz praised Bassitt’s impact, saying, “These guys always pay it forward. That’s what makes this game great. Bassitt exemplifies that—he’s battle-tested, and he has a wealth of experience to share, especially with our younger pitchers.”
Bassitt has taken a particular interest in mentoring left-hander Cade Povich, a 25-year-old with limited big league experience. The two have been working closely, experimenting with grips, and discussing pitching strategies. Povich appreciates the guidance: “He’s been in this game for a long time, and that’s what we all aspire to. I’m definitely going to keep listening to him. It’s been great playing catch with him and having these conversations—he’s not just trying to make me better, but the entire staff.”
Bassitt, for his part, relishes the opportunity to mentor the next generation. “A lot of these guys are incredibly talented,” he said. “Now, it’s about identifying what needs to be cleaned up and maximizing their strengths. Some of them don’t even realize how good they are yet. It’s about keeping everyone accountable, hungry, and ready for what’s ahead.”
But here’s the real question: Can Bassitt’s mentorship and experience truly elevate the Orioles' rotation? While his impact is undeniable, some might argue that the team’s success hinges more on the development of their young arms than on any single veteran’s influence. What do you think? Is Bassitt the missing piece Baltimore needs, or is the team’s future still too dependent on unproven talent?
Meanwhile, Bassitt remains focused on his own preparation, admitting that live BP sessions against teammates aren’t his favorite part of spring training. “You can’t really work on what you want to do,” he explained. “It’s more about getting reps and making sure I’m physically ready. I feel really good right now, and that’s what matters.”
For Orioles fans, those words are music to their ears. With the club hoping Bassitt can anchor a rotation brimming with potential, his experience—both as a pitcher and a mentor—is already paying dividends. As Albernaz put it, “That’s what makes this game great.”
Looking ahead, the Orioles are set to host the Rays at Ed Smith Stadium today, with the first pitch at 1:05 PM. Many of the team’s top hitters are expected to return to the lineup, at least for a few innings. With spring training in full swing, the Orioles are showing early signs of a team that’s blending veteran leadership with youthful energy—a combination that could make for a thrilling season.
From the split squad’s dominant performance against the Twins to Bassitt’s positive influence in the clubhouse, Baltimore’s spring training is off to a promising start. The action continues, and all eyes are on the Orioles as they gear up for Opening Day. But the real question remains: Can this team turn potential into performance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below—do you think the Orioles are poised for a breakout season, or is there still work to be done?
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