The Baltimore Orioles began the 2025 season with high hopes, despite a disappointing free-agency period and falling short in last year’s postseason. It appeared their young talent was beginning to mature—until things quickly unraveled. Less than halfway into the season, manager Brandon Hyde was fired, just two years after winning AL Manager of the Year. The move has intensified scrutiny on star catcher Adley Rutschman.
Once seen as a cornerstone of the franchise, Rutschman, a former No. 1 overall pick and All-Star, has struggled mightily this year. Batting just .209 and coming off an 0-for-4 performance in a loss to the Nationals, his offensive production has dropped off significantly. The Orioles’ pitching staff has also underperformed, and while not solely his fault, Rutschman bears some responsibility for guiding the rotation behind the plate.
Following Hyde’s dismissal, Rutschman became the team’s spokesperson, but his leadership has come under the microscope. With no clear voice in the clubhouse, there’s growing pressure on the 27-year-old to step up.
Reacting to the managerial change, Rutschman said, “It’s tough… You build relationships and feel like a family. It’s hard when something like this happens.”
He also emphasized the need for unity amid adversity: “We’ve got a great group of guys… Leaning on each other is the most important thing right now, because we have every capability to turn it around.”
Still, words haven’t translated into wins. Rutschman has just five hits over his last five games, and the Orioles were swept by the Nationals over the weekend. Without tangible improvement soon, the team risks falling into a downward spiral—and the front office can’t afford to waste another season.
The Orioles appear to be at a tipping point—not just with Rutschman, but organizationally. Change may be looming unless performance and leadership turn around quickly.
