3 overlooked Orioles prospects who could crash the big league roster in 2026

Who's next?
Juaron Watts-Brown
Juaron Watts-Brown | NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK

When fans think of the Baltimore Orioles farm system, young players like Samuel Basallo, Dylan Beavers, and Enrique Bradfield Jr. come to mind. According to MLB Pipeline, those are three of the top-5 prospects in Baltimore's farm system heading into the 2025-26 offseason.

Both Basallo and Beavers made their Major League debut this past season, and given the O's vacancy in the outfield, Bradfield might not be too far behind. But while the Orioles' top prospects get all the glory, there's a number of talented young prospects outside the the top-10 who could make their MLB debut in 2026.

3 overlooked Orioles prospects who could crash the big league roster in 2026

Juaron Watts-Brown, Orioles prospect (RHP)

The Orioles acquired right-handed pitcher Juaron Watts-Brown from the Toronto Blue Jays at this year's trade deadline in exchange for reliever Seranthony Dominguez, and there's a lot to like about the former third-round draft pick out of Long Beach State University.

Watts-Brown, though he has continued to be utilized as a starting pitcher throughout his minor-league journey, looks as though his future screams reliever — something the Orioles could use in 2026. Baltimore appears poised to accelerate Watts-Brown's path through the minors, and he could very well begin the upcoming season at Triple-A.

Trey Gibson, Orioles prosepct (RHP)

An un-drafted free agent signed by Baltimore back in 2023, Trey Gibson has shined since his pro debut two years ago. The 6-foot-5 right-hander has a mid-90s fastball that he pairs with a cutter than sits in mid-80s along with two other offerings. The fastball-cutter combo, however, has become a deadly 1-2 punch for the 23-year-old.

Gibson totaled more than 120 innings pitched last season in the minor leagues, and has the makings of a reliable, middle-of-the-rotation starter that Baltimore may have to turn to next season. The righty finished the year at Triple-A Norfolk, signaling that his next stop could be Charm City.

Nestor German, Orioles prospect (RHP)

Nestor German has skyrocketed through the O's farm system. An 11th round draft pick in 2023, German has continued to see an increase in velocity since beginning pro ball, and that could propel him to the big leagues sometime next season.

German has added to his repertoire since making his professional debut in 2024, and given the lack of quality arms on the Orioles' 40-man roster, Baltimore's front office may be forced to dip into the minor league ranks in 2026.

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