We're thrilled to have Samuel as part of our organization, He's a talented player who has already shown a lot of promise, and we're excited to see him continue to develop.
In a stunning move that’s sending shockwaves through the baseball world, the Baltimore Orioles have signed catcher Samuel Basallo to an unprecedented 8-year, $67 million contract extension. This massive deal is a testament to the team’s commitment to building a strong roster and a vote of confidence in Basallo’s abilities.
The Deal: A New Standard for Catcher Contracts
Basallo, just 21 years old, has already made a promising start to his career, hitting .286 in his first 15 plate appearances in the majors. The Dominican native has received several awards and accolades. “We’re thrilled to have Samuel as part of our organization,” said Orioles General Manager Andy Kostka. “He’s a talented player who has already shown a lot of promise, and we’re excited to see him continue to develop.”
This record-breaking contract extension sets a new standard for catcher contracts in the MLB. By locking up Basallo, the Orioles are ensuring that they have a talented young catcher at the helm for the foreseeable future. As the team looks to rebuild its roster, Basallo’s contract extension is a crucial piece of the puzzle. With a talented young catcher at the helm, the Orioles are well-positioned to make a push for the playoffs in the coming years.
What It Means for the Orioles’ Future
As Basallo continues to develop and grow as a player, fans can expect to see big things from the talented young catcher. “We’re excited to see what the future holds for Samuel and our team,” said Orioles Manager Jeff Passan. “He’s a talented player who has a lot of potential, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to grow and develop.”
Quick Stats
- .286 (Basallo’s batting average in his first 15 plate appearances)
- $67 million (reported value of the extension)
- $88.5 million (maximum value of the extension based on incentives)
- .333 (Basallo’s batting average in his MLB career)
- 0 (home runs in his MLB career)
- 4 (runs batted in (RBI) in his MLB career)
In essences, Samuel Basallo’s record-breaking contract extension is a significant development in the world of baseball. The deal is a testament to the Orioles’ commitment to building a strong roster and sets a new standard for catcher contracts in the MLB. As Basallo continues to develop and grow as a player, fans can expect to see big things from the talented young catcher.
Basallo’s Rise to Stardom: A Look at His Career Stats
Samuel Basallo, a talented catcher and first baseman from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, has quickly risen through the Baltimore Orioles organization to become one of MLB’s most exciting young stars. Signed as an international free agent in 2021, Basallo showcased his potential across every level of the minors, highlighted by winning the 2023 Carolina League MVP and the Top MLB Prospect Award. His breakout continued in 2024 with Double-A Bowie and Triple-A Norfolk, where his powerful bat and versatility drew national attention. In August 2025, just after turning 21, he made his MLB debut, immediately making an impact with clutch hits and a confident presence at the plate. He has played for the Dominican Summer League Orioles, Florida Complex League Orioles, Delmarva Shorebirds, and Bowie Baysox.
Quick Summary
Samuel Basallo is a Dominican professional baseball catcher and first baseman for the Baltimore Orioles. He made his MLB debut in 2025 and has signed an eight-year, $67 million contract extension with the team. The deal is the largest pre-arbitration extension ever given to a catcher and suggests the Orioles view Basallo as their catcher of the future. Basallo has hit .286 in his first 15 plate appearances in the majors and has a batting average of .333 in his MLB career. He has received several awards and accolades, including the 2023 Carolina League Most Valuable Player Award and Top MLB Prospect Award.
FAQs
Who is Samuel Basallo?
Samuel Alexander Basallo, born August 13, 2004, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is a rare blend of power and poise behind the plate. Signed by the Orioles in January 2021 as a teenager, he’s rapidly ascended through the system with poise and impressive performance as both a catcher and first baseman. Basallo showcased his potential across every level of the minors, highlighted by winning the 2023 Carolina League MVP and the Top MLB Prospect Award. His breakout continued in 2024 with Double-A Bowie and Triple-A Norfolk
What is Samuel Basallo's role on the Baltimore Orioles?
Samuel Basallo has stepped into the spotlight as the primary catcher for the Orioles following his rapid call-up and the injury to Adley Rutschman. Initially expected to split time between catcher, first base, and designated hitter, Basallo has now become the No. 1 backstop due to Rutschman’s stint on the injured list with an oblique strain
What is Samuel Basallo's batting average?
As of late August 2025, Basallo has delivered a promising start to his major league career. Over his first four games going ,4-for-14, he’s sitting at a .286 batting average, accompanied by one double and five RBIs. A snapshot from the Orioles’ official site confirms the same: 14 at-bats, .286 average, zero home runs, five RBIs, and a .690 OPS
