Craig Albernaz set to become next Orioles manager (report)

The Orioles are finalizing a deal to hire Guardians associate manager Craig Albernaz as manager, according to a report from ESPNâ€s Jeff Passan. The club has not confirmed the news.

Albernaz, 42, spent the last two seasons on Clevelandâ€s coaching staff.

Albernazâ€s coaching career began in 2015 in the Rays organization. Across five years, he handled various roles, including a managerial stint for High-A Bowling Green in 2018.

Before joining the Guardians after the ’23 season, Albernaz spent four years with the Giants as a bullpen/catching coach.

A former catcher, Albernaz spent nine seasons in the Minors after signing with the Rays as an undrafted free agent in 2006.

The Orioles dismissed longtime skipper Brandon Hyde in May, amid a slow start to a ‘25 season that began with lofty expectations. Baltimore closed the year with a 60-59 record under interim manager Tony Mansolino, ultimately finishing in last place in the AL East at 75-87.

Albernaz will try to guide the Orioles back to the postseason — after consecutive playoff trips in 2023 and ‘24 — behind a young core that includes shortstop Gunnar Henderson, catcher Adley Rutschman and second baseman Jackson Holliday.

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