Orioles Nearing Deal to Appoint Craig Albernaz as Manager

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Orioles Nearing Deal to Appoint Craig Albernaz as Manager

The Baltimore Orioles are nearing an agreement to hire Craig Albernaz as their next manager, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Jon Heyman of the New York Post also reported that Albernaz is the leading candidate for the position. This announcement comes just before Albernaz’s 43rd birthday, which is celebrated this week.

Background on Craig Albernaz

Albernaz was previously the associate manager for the Cleveland Guardians. He has extensive coaching experience, having served as the bench coach for the Guardians in 2024 and spent four seasons on the San Francisco Giants’ coaching staff as a bullpen and catching coach. His coaching journey began in the Tampa Bay Rays’ farm system, where he managed at both the high-A and low-A levels.

Playing Career

Before his coaching career, Albernaz was a catcher in the minor leagues, playing for the Rays and the Detroit Tigers from 2006 to 2014. His transition to coaching came after being interviewed for a managerial vacancy with the Guardians, where he eventually joined Stephen Vogt’s coaching staff.

Previous Managerial Searches

Albernaz has been a popular candidate in recent managerial searches. Last offseason, he was a finalist for the managerial positions with the Chicago White Sox and Miami Marlins. This year, he was also linked to interviews with the San Francisco Giants and Washington Nationals.

Current Management Situation

His appointment comes as the Orioles look to stabilize after the firing of Brandon Hyde in May, following a disappointing 15-28 record. Interim manager Tony Mansolino secured a winning record of 60-59, positioning him as a candidate for the permanent role. Other names considered for the job included Scott Servais, Luis Rojas, and Ryan Flaherty.

Goals for the Future

Albernaz faces the challenge of guiding a team that has shown potential, reaching the playoffs in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. However, injuries and performance issues have hindered the Orioles’ progress. Under the direction of president of baseball operations Mike Elias, the team aims to enhance its young core during the offseason.

Offseason Overview

This offseason has seen significant managerial movements across the league. The Orioles join other teams, such as the Angels and Giants, in announcing new hires. Several teams, including the Nationals and Padres, are still in search of new management.