Orioles taking significant risk with Shane Baz extension

The Baltimore Orioles have reportedly locked in a key part of their rotation.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Orioles have agreed to a five-year, $68 million extension with pitcher Shane Baz. Passan further reported that the new contract will cover his arbitration years and buy out two years of free agency. 

Baz had been acquired from the Rays during the 2025-26 offseason with the Orioles giving up a significant prospect haul to bring the talented, but oft-injured, righty on board. He had his first full season in 2025, posting a 4.87 ERA and a 1.335 WHIP over his 166.1 innings, striking out 176 batters with 64 walks.

Baltimore Orioles gambling on Shane Baz's upside

There are reasons to believe that Baz will be better in 2026. His 46.8% ground-ball rate would fit well with the Orioles' excellent infield defense. Baz could also be considered unlucky, as his .303 batting average against on balls in play was 12 points higher than league average. While his 4.37 FIP may not be overly impressive, that would be a good mark for a pitcher who missed most of the previous three seasons due to injury.

Those injuries are the biggest concern for Baz. He missed time due to a pair of elbow surgeries, including Tommy John surgery, which cost him the entire 2023 season. If Baz can stay healthy, this extension could prove to be a bargain. It is a gamble that the Orioles were willing to take as they have locked up what they hope will be a key part of their rotation for years to come.