The Baltimore Orioles have been searching for a new manager for several months now. Following a disappointing 75-87 record in the 2025 MLB season, the organization made the decision to part ways with Brandon Hyde early in the year due to poor team performance.
On Sunday night, it appears the Orioles have settled on their next clubhouse leader. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Baltimore is reportedly finalizing a deal to hire Craig Albernaz as their new manager.
Albernaz, 42, comes from the Cleveland Guardians organization, where he served as associate manager. During his time with Cleveland, the Guardians overcame a 15.5-game deficit to claim the American League Central title this season. Passan noted on social media that Albernaz was a widely sought-after candidate for several open managerial positions.
The Orioles have experienced a dramatic fall from grace over the past few seasons. After a breakout year in 2023, when Baltimore won 101 games and claimed their first AL East division title since 2014, hopes were high. However, the Orioles were swept in the ALDS by the eventual World Series champion Texas Rangers.
In 2024, Baltimore showed promise again but struggled down the stretch. They ultimately finished second in the AL East and were eliminated by the upstart Kansas City Royals in the AL Wild Card Series.
Craig Albernaz brings valuable postseason experience to Baltimore’s dugout. He played a key role in helping the Guardians win the AL Central in both 2024 and 2025. In 2024, Cleveland advanced to the ALCS but fell short against the New York Yankees, missing a chance at the franchise’s first World Series appearance since 2016.
Having served under former major league catcher Stephen Vogt, Albernaz now has the opportunity to lead on his own. Baltimore also boasts an impressive young core of talent, making this a potentially exciting hire for the franchise.
It will certainly be interesting to see how Craig Albernaz’s tenure unfolds starting with the 2026 season. Orioles fans will be eagerly watching to see if this new chapter can bring sustained success to Baltimore.
https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/baltimore-orioles/orioles-news-lands-guardians-coach-next-manager
