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2h ago

Orioles Finalizing 8-Year, $67 Million Extension With Rookie Catcher Samuel Basallo

The record-setting pact signals a long-term bet on the 21-year-old who is starting while Adley Rutschman recovers.

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Aug 18, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Baltimore Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo (29) hits a two run RBI single during the ninth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • Agreement includes a 2034 club option and escalators that can lift the total value to $88.5 million, with the deal beginning next season.
  • Multiple outlets report it is the largest pre‑arbitration extension ever for a catcher.
  • Basallo surged through the system after signing out of the Dominican Republic in 2021 and hit .270/.377/.589 with 23 homers in 76 Triple‑A games before going 4-for-14 with five RBIs to open his MLB career.
  • He is taking regular reps with Rutschman on the injured list, and his ability to catch as well as play first base and DH has prompted outside discussion about how Baltimore could allocate roles long term.
  • The Orioles timed his call-up to preserve rookie eligibility and potential draft-pick compensation, and this marks the first long-term player extension under GM Mike Elias.