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5h ago

Rosenthal Counsels Patience on Rutschman as Tigers Emerge in Trade Talk

The Basallo extension has stirred questions about Baltimore’s catching plan.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 17: Adley Rutschman #35 of the Baltimore Orioles looks on after catching against the San Francisco Giants at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 17, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Image
Aug 12, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman (35) walks off the field after being left on base in the ninth inning agains the Seattle Mariners at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Lexi Thompson-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • The Orioles signed rookie Samuel Basallo to an eight-year, $67 million contract through 2033 with a 2034 team option and potential escalators.
  • Ken Rosenthal told Foul Territory that Baltimore "cannot give up on Adley Rutschman" and framed the Basallo deal as a broader investment rather than a replacement.
  • Rosenthal also noted that Basallo’s status as a full-time major-league catcher, especially defensively, is not yet established.
  • Despite a .227 average, nine home runs and a .683 OPS in 85 games this season, Statcast pegs Rutschman at a .338 xwOBA with a career-best 89.8 mph average exit velocity after a midseason oblique strain.
  • Trade speculation persists in media analyses, with Bleacher Report—cited by Sporting News—placing the Tigers fifth among plausible landing spots for Rutschman.