Pete Alonso moment in spring training proves Orioles made right move

Feb 20, 2026; Sarasota, Florida, USA; Baltimore Orioles first baseman Pete Alonso (25) greets shortstop Gunnar Henderson (2) before the start of the spring training game against the New York Yankees at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images | Jonathan Dyer-Imagn ImagesThe Baltimore Orioles lacked an adult in the room last season. The Orioles were one of the biggest disappointments of the 2025 campaign, fired their manager by the end of May, and had the biggest sell-off at the MLB trade deadline. In other words, it's no surprise that those who stuck around last year weren't exactly willing to be the frontman for failure. The Orioles may point to Pete Alonso's power as the reason they signed him, but his being the adult in the room moving forward likely played a part in their interest.

…