Orioles and RHP Chris Bassitt Finalize $18.5 Million Contract
The Baltimore Orioles have secured right-hander Chris Bassitt's services for the upcoming season, finalizing a $18.5 million contract. This deal comes after Bassitt's impressive performances with the Toronto Blue Jays over the past three seasons, where he showcased his reliability and consistency.
With a $3 million signing bonus included, Bassitt's contract also offers potential performance bonuses, including $500,000 if he starts at least 27 games. The 36-year-old veteran has proven his endurance, pitching over 157 innings and making at least 27 starts in each of the last five seasons. His ERA has rarely exceeded 4.00, and he boasts an impressive 83-65 career record with a 3.64 ERA across multiple teams.
Bassitt's addition to the Orioles' rotation strengthens their lineup, joining Shane Baz, Trevor Rogers, and Zach Eflin. The Orioles are looking to rebuild after a disappointing 2025 season, where they finished last in the AL East with a 75-87 record and a 24th-ranked ERA among starters. The team's recent free-agent signings, including Pete Alonso's $155 million contract, and strategic trades, such as acquiring Baz and re-signing Eflin, indicate a commitment to improving their performance.
Despite their recent struggles, the Orioles are determined to turn things around and make a strong showing in the AL East. With Bassitt's experience and talent, they believe they can contribute significantly to the team's success and help them climb back up the rankings.
