MLB execs can’t stop whispering about looming Adley Rutschman rumors

Since the start of the offseason, it seems clear that the plan from the Baltimore Orioles was for Adley Rutschman to begin the 2026 season on their roster. Rumors persisted at the end of the regular season that Samuel Basallo's arrival could push the Orioles closer to trading Rutschman, but Mike Elias confirmed the plan is for the 27-year-old to serve as the team's primary catcher.

And, if we're being honest, trading Rutschman now feels slightly lazy. If the plan is to contend in 2026, it would make sense for the Orioles to enter the season with Rutschman in their starting lineup. Basallo's bat, even with his struggles in his initial Major League run, should be a bright spot next season, but it remains to be seen if he is ready to handle catching duties on a regular basis.

The Orioles would also be selling low on Rutschman, who had an injury-riddled 2025 campaign and that may have added to his offensive regression. Adding in that he remains cost-controlled through arbitration, and financially, there shouldn't be a rush for the Orioles to move Rutschman either.

Baltimore Orioles say they plan on keeping Adley Rutschman, but he was a topic of conversation at the GM Meetings

Closing the loop on the GM Meetings from Las Vegas last week, The Athletic's Jim Bowden reports that teams in the market for a catcher did check in with the Orioles and the status of Rutschman. Bowden left the rest open for interpretation, but also mentioned that teams could also be eyeing the Seattle Mariners, Chicago White Sox, and Kansas City Royals for a potential trade for a catcher.

Among the teams making those calls were the Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers. None of those teams is a clear trade fit for the Orioles, who likely would entertain the idea of moving Rutschman for a cost-controlled starting pitcher. The Brewers could dangle Freddy Peralta in trade talks, but their interest in a catcher is likely tied to needing a backup for William Contreras.

Never say never, but it would seem that Rutschman remains on track to stick with the Orioles, at least until the MLB trade deadline next season.