Orioles Start Season with Historic Win, Roster Decisions Loom

Baltimore, MD — The Baltimore Orioles kicked off their 2025 regular season with a spectacular 12-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, marking a historic start as 11 of the 12 runs came from home runs. The offensive explosion featured standout performances from catcher Adley Rutschman and center fielder Cedric Mullins, each hitting two home runs, while second baseman Jordan Westburg and right fielder Tyler O’Neill contributed one each.

O’Neill, the team’s newest addition after signing a three-year deal in the offseason, shined in his first game, reaching base in all five of his plate appearances — a franchise first for an Opening Day. This game set the stage for an exciting two-game series, with anticipation building for Game 2 as starting pitcher Charlie Morton prepares to make history.

Morton, at 41 years and 136 days old, is set to become the oldest player to start a game for the Orioles since 1954. In contrast, the only older player to start in major league history, including the St. Louis Browns, was Satchel Paige, who took the mound at 47 years old in 1953. Morton joined the Orioles this offseason on a one-year, $15 million contract to add veteran depth to a pitching rotation that has faced injuries.

Despite being inserted as the No. 2 starter due to injuries suffered during spring training, Morton brings substantial experience, having pitched 30 games for the Atlanta Braves last season with an 8-10 record and a 4.19 ERA. The Orioles hope his durability can help anchor their rotation as they navigate ongoing injury challenges.

As the season unfolds, attention will also be on roster decisions, notably the recent optioning of outfielder Dylan Carlson to the minors. Carlson had an impressive spring, hitting .321 with two home runs and nine RBIs. However, with a deep outfield lineup, his opportunity to break into the majors remains uncertain, barring injury to one of the established players.

Fans are optimistic that Carlson can use this time in the minors to continue developing and potentially return to the major league roster as the season progresses, offering crucial depth as the Orioles aim for another successful campaign.