BALTIMORE – A buzz filled Camden Yards on Thursday, and not just because it was the earliest Opening Day in Baltimore Orioles franchise history. Trevor Rogers delivered a dominant pitching performance, and timely hitting from Colton Cowser and Blaze Alexander propelled the Orioles to a 2-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins. The win marked a successful debut for new manager Craig Albernaz, signaling a potentially promising start to the 2026 season for a team looking to build on last year’s 75-87 record.
Rogers, coming off a stellar 2025 campaign where he posted a 9-3 record with a 1.81 ERA, picked up right where he left off. He pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing just three hits and four walks while consistently working out of trouble. The left-hander induced three double plays, a testament to his ability to navigate pressure situations, and held the Twins to a dismal 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position. This performance underscored why the Orioles are counting on Rogers to anchor their rotation this season.
A Pitching Duel Broken in the Seventh
For over six innings, the game was a classic pitcher’s duel. Minnesota’s Joe Ryan was equally impressive, allowing only one hit and two walks over 5 ⅓ innings in his second career Opening Day start. Ryan’s ability to command the strike zone and limit baserunners kept the Twins in the game, but he ultimately couldn’t match Rogers’s efficiency. The stalemate continued until the bottom of the seventh, when the Orioles finally broke through against the Minnesota bullpen.
A leadoff single by Samuel Basallo ignited the rally. Tyler O’Neill followed with another single, putting runners on first and second. Kody Funderburk, who had entered the game in relief, then faced Cowser, who delivered a crucial sacrifice fly to score Basallo. With two outs, Blaze Alexander ripped a single up the middle, driving in O’Neill and giving the Orioles a 2-0 lead. The two-run inning proved to be enough, showcasing the Orioles’ potential to manufacture runs even against a strong pitching staff.
Buxton’s Blast, Helsley Closes It Out
The Twins didn’t go quietly. In the eighth inning, Byron Buxton tripled and then scored on a fly ball by Luke Keaschall, narrowing the Orioles’ lead to 2-1. However, Baltimore closer Ryan Helsley shut the door in the ninth, striking out the side – including a key strikeout of pinch-hitter Trevor Larnach with a runner on second – to secure the victory. Helsley’s composure and dominance on the mound provided a reassuring end to a tightly contested game.
Alonso’s Debut and Albernaz’s First Win
The game too marked the Orioles debut of Pete Alonso, the five-time All-Star who signed a five-year contract with Baltimore in the offseason. While Alonso went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a walk, his presence in the lineup adds a significant power threat to the Orioles’ offense. He finished the 2025 season with 126 RBIs for the New York Mets, according to MLB.com, and is expected to be a key contributor in Baltimore.
Beyond the on-field performance, the victory held significance for manager Craig Albernaz, who was hired from Cleveland in October. His debut win offered a positive sign for the direction of the team, which is aiming to improve upon last season’s record. Albernaz’s strategic decisions throughout the game, including bullpen management, demonstrated his preparedness for the role.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles and Twins will take Friday off before resuming their series on Saturday. Right-hander Taj Bradley is scheduled to start for Minnesota, while Baltimore will counter with righty Kyle Bradish. First pitch is set for 4:05 PM ET. Fans can find updated schedules and ticket information on the official MLB website.
This opening day win provides a strong foundation for the Orioles as they embark on the 2026 season. The combination of stellar pitching, timely hitting, and a new manager at the helm suggests a team poised for growth and contention.
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