Podcast: On the assumptions that built this Orioles roster

TL;DR

The Orioles are struggling after a tough series against the Yankees, exposing roster issues. The podcast discusses General Manager Mike Elias's assumptions in building the team and their impact this season.

Key points

The Orioles are struggling after a series against the Yankees
General Manager Mike Elias's roster assumptions are being questioned
Injuries and underperformance are major concerns for the team

Mentioned in this story

Baltimore OriolesNew York YankeesMike EliasZach EflinTrevor RogersKyle BradishShane Baz

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - AUGUST 09: General Manager Mike Elias of the Baltimore Orioles watches the Orioles Hall of Fame ceremony before the game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Athletics at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 09, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images This time a week ago, it felt like the Orioles were treading water and that as long as they could continue doing that, they might avoid a disastrous outcome to the season. It’s harder now to feel like the Orioles are staying afloat after what we’ve watched over the first three games of this series against the Yankees. Problems that feel like they don’t have immediate solutions have been exposed and the team is going to have to contend with those or it will once again sink. In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m thinking about a number of the assumptions that Mike Elias made in assembling the roster this way and how they have or mostly haven’t worked out so far this season. Some things aren’t fair to blame on Elias, like Zach Eflin needing Tommy John surgery after one start. That’s just plain bad luck. Other things are the direct result of decisions that he has made where there were alternatives available to him. There are seven big areas that are looking like bad bets right now, starting with “A top of the rotation of , , and will be competitive” and going down through, “The defense will be fine enough when considering the offense that comes with it.” The team is not yet in the same kind of free fall that they went into a year ago, but if you’re feeling like they’re right at the start of one, that’s probably because it’s hard to picture short-term solutions to some of these problems. It’s rough. Check out the episode here: If the above player isn’t displaying, view this article in Incognito Mode or check it out on This is my weekly podcast about whatever is going on lately with the Orioles. If you enjoyed this episode, please make sure to subscribe. You can get the show on , , or wherever you prefer to access your podcasts. How are you feeling about the way things are going so far? Answers could make it into the mailbag section of the next episode of the podcast.

Q&A

What assumptions did Mike Elias make when building the Orioles roster?

Mike Elias's assumptions include relying on a competitive rotation and sufficient defense to support the offense, which have not worked out as planned.

How has the Orioles' performance changed recently?

The Orioles have shown signs of struggle, particularly after a disappointing series against the Yankees, raising concerns about their ability to stay competitive.

What are the key issues facing the Orioles this season?

Key issues include injuries, underperformance from key players, and concerns about the team's overall depth and defense.

Podcast: On the assumptions that built this Orioles roster

TL;DR

Key points

Q&A

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