BREAKING: The Baltimore Orioles are set to finalize an eight-year, $67 million contract extension with catcher Samuel Basallo, according to sources reported by ESPN. This deal comes just days after Basallo’s stunning major league debut on August 13, 2023, securing one of baseball’s top prospects for the foreseeable future.
At only 21 years old, Basallo is already the No. 4 overall prospect in baseball, as ranked by ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel. This contract underscores the Orioles’ commitment to a bright future, especially after Basallo’s remarkable rise through the minor leagues. He showcased his power this season in Triple-A, hitting an impressive .270/.377/.589 with 23 home runs in just 76 games.
The extension, which could escalate to a maximum of $88.5 million, marks the largest pre-arbitration deal for a catcher in MLB history. The contract will officially begin next season and includes a club option, revealing the team’s high hopes for this slugging left-hander.
Basallo’s journey began when he was signed from the Dominican Republic in 2021 for $1.3 million. Evaluators have hailed him as the best hitter in the minor leagues this season, and his initial performance in the majors has only solidified that reputation.
While the Orioles currently have a starting catcher in two-time All-Star Adley Rutschman, Basallo’s versatility could see him playing at first base or designated hitter, areas where he has significant experience. With elite bat speed and exceptional exit velocities, Basallo has the potential to become a consistent 30-homer threat in the big leagues.
This contract not only reflects the Orioles’ strategic investment in young talent since the arrival of general manager Mike Elias in 2018 but also signals a shift in the franchise’s approach to scouting and player development, particularly in Latin America.
As the Orioles continue to build a formidable roster, Basallo joins an exciting lineup of young talent, including Rutschman, shortstop Gunnar Henderson, and outfielders Colton Cowser and Dylan Beavers. With this extension, the Orioles are not just making headlines—they are laying the groundwork for a competitive future.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Orioles make strategic decisions in the upcoming seasons. The completion of this deal marks a significant milestone for both the franchise and Basallo, who is poised to be a cornerstone of the Orioles’ lineup for years to come. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.