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Orioles have to address this flaw and quickly if Samuel Basallo is going be their catcher

Samuel Basallo wasn't as sharp a game caller as Adley Rutschman, and his skills will need to improve if he wants to stick behind the plate.

By Brian Burrows · Birds Watcher

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 9:08 PM

Key Things to Know

Brian Burrows argues Samuel Basallo must quickly improve his game-calling skills to remain Baltimore's starting catcher.
The Orioles previously dealt All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman to the Boston Red Sox to open starting duties for Basallo.
Starting pitchers Shane Baz and Brandon Young both recorded higher ERAs with Basallo catching instead of Rutschman.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Brian Burrows of Birds Watcher argues that Baltimore Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo must improve his game calling and connection with the starting pitching staff this offseason. Following the trade deadline deal that sent All-Star Adley Rutschman to the Boston Red Sox, the Orioles entrusted the 22-year-old with the primary catching duties.

While Baltimore pitchers collectively posted a 3.67 ERA with Basallo, starters such as Shane Baz and Brandon Young experienced higher ERAs compared to pitching to Rutschman. Burrows notes that Basallo faces competition behind the plate from newly acquired Gold Glove finalist Carlos Narvaez if he fails to gain the starting pitchers' trust.

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Orioles have to address this flaw and quickly if Samuel Basallo is going be their catcher

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