One player who symbolizes the Orioles’ transformation

Anthony Santander isn’t the Orioles’ best player—that title belongs to Gunnar Henderson. Nor is he their leader—that’s Adley Rutschman’s role.

But that doesn't diminish his importance to the team.

Santander embodies something deeper, a connection to the franchise that no one else on the roster can claim. He’s been a constant presence through Baltimore’s darkest days, weathering back-to-back 100-loss seasons in 2018-19, and now he’s thriving as the Orioles emerge as perennial contenders.

Santander’s journey with the Orioles has been one of steady contribution and resilience. He wasn’t a headline grabber when Baltimore snagged him in the 2016 Rule 5 Draft. A little-known prospect from Venezuela, he wasn’t expected to become a cornerstone of the franchise. Yet, through consistency and determination, Santander has made his mark.

In 2019, as Baltimore embarked on a grueling rebuild, Santander hinted at his potential by hitting 20 home runs and posting a .773 OPS in just 93 games. It was a glimpse of what he could bring to a team in transition. 

Fast forward to 2022, and Santander continued solidifying his role, delivering a 2.3 bWAR season, which he followed with a 3.0 bWAR in 2023. In 2024, his first season as an All-Star, he’s posted a 2.6 bWAR, a testament to his growing impact.

Santander may not be a defensive wizard, but his bat has provided the spark the Orioles need at crucial moments. On Friday night against the Houston Astros, down 5-2 in the eighth inning, Santander electrified Camden Yards with a go-ahead grand slam.