Dream 2026 lineup for Orioles that would end the Mike Elias doubt once and for all

Dreams have been the only thing for Baltimore Orioles fans to live on over the last calendar year, considering Mike Elias has left a lot to be desired in his role as the top executive in the Orioles' front office. Even when there has been subtle optimism that the Orioles could be active in free agency, Elias' comments about Baltimore not increasing payroll threw a wet blanket on any remaining faith fans in him.

After a sell-off at the MLB trade deadline in 2025, there is no shortage of need for the Orioles this offseason. They need to add several arms to their pitching staff, including a top-of-the-rotation starter, and have to find a way to upgrade their offense. Elias should be busy, and honestly, this is the offseason for him to reach for the stars.

Dream Baltimore Orioles starting lineup for 2026 MLB Opening Day

We're going to keep this through the realm of players who are available this offseason. Obviously, stealing Aaron Judge away from the New York Yankees would be the ultimate dream move for the Orioles. Nonetheless, even for a dream, that is one step too far.

1. Brendan Donovan, Second Base

Let's get the changes started right away, shall we? Jackson Holliday didn't quite silence the doubt during the 2025 season, and with the Cardinals reportedly making All-Star Brendan Donovan available this offseason, he would be a clear upgrade at second base.

2. Cody Bellinger, Center Field

The Show goes on. Or, dream in this case. The production from the Orioles' outfielders was a disappointment in 2025, and it stands to reason that they will look for a primary center fielder this offseason. The answer should be Cody Bellinger, who has an ideal combination of speed and power to be near the top of the Orioles' lineup.

3. Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop

A familiar face. The 2025 season saw some regression for Henderson, who finished the campaign with only 17 home runs. In a lineup that has more protection around him, the numbers should undoubtedly return to normal.

4. Pete Alonso, First Base

Dream big. The Orioles played a miserable brand of baseball in 2025, and it started with an offense that was far too inconsistent. Baltimore has a clear need at first base, and Pete Alonso would be an easy way to check that box.

5. Adley Rutschman, Catcher

The 2025 season was riddled with injuries for Adley Rutschman. While Samuel Basallo's arrival will have teams wondering if the Orioles will make Rutschman available this offseason, if they want to contend in 2026, it would make sense for him to open the season as the team's starting catcher.

6. Jordan Westburg, Third Base

Hitting 17 home runs in 85 games last season, Westburg remains the clear option for the Orioles at third base. The only thing holding him back could be availability.

7. Samuel Basallo, Designated Hitter

We didn't forget about Samuel Basallo. Basallo has hit at every level of the Orioles' organization, and there's no reason to put too much into his struggles through his first 118 plate appearances at the Major League level. Basallo's bat will certainly play, especially when he has had a full offseason to make his initial adjustment.

8. Dylan Beavers, Left Field

It was only 35 games for Dylan Beavers last season, but he looked the part, with 4 home runs and 14 RBI. His first full season will likely see some ups and downs, making him a perfect candidate to be near the bottom of the Orioles' lineup.

9. Tyler O'Neill, Right Field

A true dream scenario for the Orioles this offseason would be to find a taker for Tyler O'Neill's horrible contract. However, in a lineup that has been dramatically altered, O'Neill hiding at the bottom may not be the worst thing to happen.