Orioles' slow start to 2026 receives slightly concerning remark from ESPN analyst

Pete Alonso had a slow start just like his new team has had this season, but his .743 OPS now is what the Orioles need to do: get above .500, and stay there instead of staying below a winning record.

But, the most concerning part of their sub .500 record is that such a tough start to the year has come against an easier schedule compared to other teams around the league.

Their -30 run differential is a big concern, as are their injuries with Jackson Holliday, Ryan Mountcastle, Jordan Westburg, Heston Kjerstad, Trevor Rogers, Dean Kramer, Zach Eflin, and Ryan Helsley all banged up right now.

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But their losing record when they've been able to face some easy teams is an even greater concern. They've not been the worst in the league or their division, but the lackluster season so far has led to some long-term concerns.

May is going to be a big month, as they face the Yankees, the Tampa Bay Rays for two series, the Toronto Blue Jays for a four-game series, and a decent team in the Detroit Tigers to go with series against the Athletics, Miami Marlins, and Washington Nationals.

The Orioles might be in some trouble this season, especially if May doesn't go well. Their C- grade is a good representative of where they're at, with the team not in dire straits yet, but teetering on the brink of some major issues if they lose a bit this month.

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