Eric Karabell Makes Bold Orioles World Series Prediction For 2026

The Baltimore Orioles endured a challenging 2025 campaign, finishing with a 75-87 record and landing in last place in the American League East. After back-to-back playoff appearances in 2023 and 2024, the team struggled from the outset, dropping below .500 early and never recovering.

Key losses in the prior offseason, including ace Corbin Burnes and outfielder Anthony Santander, contributed to the downturn. A notable offensive slump saw the club’s home run total plummet from second in MLB to 11th, with no player exceeding 17 long balls. Manager Brandon Hyde was dismissed on May 17 amid a 15-28 start, replaced by Tony Mansolino, who guided the squad to a 60-59 mark the rest of the way.

The Orioles were eliminated from contention on September 16.

This offseason, Baltimore has acted aggressively to rebuild. They hired Craig Albernaz as manager and bolstered the roster with key additions: signing first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year deal, reliever Ryan Helsley for two years, and outfielder Leody Taveras for one year. Trades brought starter Shane Baz from the Rays, outfielder Taylor Ward from the Angels (in exchange for Grayson Rodriguez), and reliever Andrew Kittredge from the Cubs. They also re-signed starter Zach Eflin to a one-year contract. The Orioles remain linked to free-agent lefty Ranger Suárez, eyeing further rotation depth.

"You're never really expecting it … I think the excitement took over of being able to join such a good team."

Shane Baz on being dealt to Baltimore. pic.twitter.com/8qMfaG3zyn

— Orioles on MASN (@masnOrioles) January 2, 2026

Some analysts believe the Orioles have even improved enough to be World Series contenders. On January 2, ESPN’s Eric Karabell predicted that Baltimore will win it all next year, and he explained why.

“The Orioles finished last in the AL East in 2025, but their 75 wins were the most for fifth-place entrants,” Karabell wrote. “Since then, the franchise added a crew of veterans around their young corps, including 1B Pete Alonso, OF Taylor Ward, RHPs Shane Baz and Zach Eflin and closer Ryan Helsley.”

“Gunnar Henderson should return to his 2024 form,” Karabell continued. “Trevor Rogers may continue with his 2025 form. Top prospect Samuel Basallo will be a breakout star. The Orioles aren’t messing around, and don’t be surprised when Jackson Holliday becomes a legit AL All-Star and he makes a 30/30 run.”