Locked On Orioles - Daily Podcast On The Baltimore Orioles Orioles Mailbag: Heston Kjerstad's outlook? Strength of Schedule? Relief prospects?
10 snips
Feb 26, 2026 Discussion about whether Heston Kjerstad can crack the Opening Day roster and the defensive questions affecting his chances. A look at the toughest stretches of the Orioles schedule, including multiple long no-off-day runs. Which pitching prospects might shift to the bullpen or force late-season promotions and the idea of piggybacking starters.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trevor Rogers Poised For Opening Day Role
- Trevor Rogers looks ready for the season after another efficient spring outing with three scoreless innings and frequent first-pitch strikes.
- Connor Newcomb noted Rogers threw just 34 pitches and may have added bullpen work, making him an early Opening Day rotation candidate.
Anthony Nunez Is Legitimate Late Reliever
- Anthony Nunez shows plus relief stuff with a sweeping slider and sinker featuring huge horizontal movement that projects as one of the best bullpen arms in camp.
- Nunez is on the 40-man with options so he likely starts in AAA but could force a call-up if dominant or injuries occur.
Vance Honeycutt Starts Spring With Two Homers
- Vance Honeycutt homered in both spring at-bats, including a 104 mph, 410-foot shot off a 94 mph sinker.
- Connor contrasted Honeycutt's 2025 rough season with his hot spring start as a bounce-back attempt.