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2w ago

Orioles Finalize One-Year, $18.5 Million Deal With Chris Bassitt

The veteran right-hander chose Baltimore for a World Series push influenced by Pete Alonso.

Orioles infielder Coby Mayo fields a groundball at third base during infield drills on Friday at Ed Smith Stadium. (Matt Weyrich/Staff)
Image
Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias speaks with coaches on the bench at Ed Smith Stadium ahead of a live bullpen session during spring training. (Matt Weyrich/Staff)
Sep 12, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws a pitch against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • Baltimore announced Bassitt’s one-year contract worth $18.5 million, which includes a $3 million signing bonus and up to $500,000 tied to reaching 27 starts.
  • Speaking at spring training, Bassitt said his top reason for signing was the chance to win a title and credited Pete Alonso’s recruitment and the club’s transparency during talks.
  • He joins a group featuring Shane Baz, Trevor Rogers, Zach Eflin and Kyle Bradish, with manager Craig Albernaz acknowledging a six-man rotation is under consideration.
  • Soon to turn 37, Bassitt has logged at least 27 starts and 157 1/3 innings in each of the past five seasons, posting a 3.96 ERA in 170 1/3 innings in 2025 and a 1.04 ERA in seven postseason relief outings.
  • The signing caps a win-now offseason that added Alonso, Taylor Ward, Ryan Helsley and Andrew Kittredge, though local analysis notes the rotation still lacks a clear ace and health concerns remain.