BREAKING: The Baltimore Orioles have officially finalized an eight-year, $67 million contract extension for catcher Samuel Basallo, sources confirm. This monumental deal comes less than a week after Basallo’s stunning Major League Baseball debut on August 13, 2023, marking a significant move for the franchise as they secure one of baseball’s top prospects.
At just 21 years old, Basallo is already the No. 4 overall prospect in the sport, according to ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel. His meteoric rise through the minor leagues has been nothing short of impressive. After starting in Low-A, he quickly ascended to Double-A, reached Triple-A just after turning 20, and dominated the competition this season with a remarkable .270 batting average, .377 on-base percentage, and .589 slugging percentage, including 23 home runs in just 76 games.
Basallo’s exceptional talent as a left-handed slugger, combined with his elite bat speed, has led evaluators to label him the best hitter in the minor leagues this season. He was signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2021 for $1.3 million and has quickly become a cornerstone player for the Orioles, who have invested heavily in developing talent from Latin America.
The contract extension, which includes a club option, could ultimately max out at $88.5 million, making it the largest pre-arbitration extension for a catcher in MLB history. This deal not only underscores the team’s confidence in Basallo’s future but also reflects their commitment to building a competitive roster.
While the Orioles currently have a star catcher in two-time All-Star Adley Rutschman, there are plans for Basallo to also see time at first base and designated hitter. His versatility on the field enhances his value to the team and could make him a significant contributor in various roles.
With Basallo’s rapid ascent, he could remain a “rookie” until 2026, allowing the Orioles to potentially secure an additional draft pick if he wins Rookie of the Year honors. This strategic move comes as part of a broader youth movement initiated by general manager Mike Elias since 2018, alongside other rising stars like Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Westburg, and Jackson Holliday.
The Orioles’ dedication to nurturing young talent is evident, and as they continue to bolster their roster, fans eagerly await the exciting potential Basallo brings. As this story develops, all eyes will be on how Basallo performs in the big leagues and what this means for the future of the Baltimore Orioles.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Orioles continue to shape their roster and pursue championship aspirations.
