The Baltimore Orioles attracted attention when they signed Pete Alonso during the December Winter Meetings, sparking rumors that either Ryan Mountcastle or Coby Mayo would be traded before spring training began. However, Orioles executive Mike Elias recently suggested there is still no clear strategy for Mayo’s role in the upcoming season. Though Mayo has struggled to impress at the corner infield spots, the team plans to explore multiple position options for the 24-year-old, including possibly shifting him to the corner outfield during spring training. This uncertainty complicates Mayo’s prospects for the 2026 roster.
Mike Elias stated,
“Coby Mayo’s focus will be first base but that the coaching staff will talk to him about the possibility of additional positional focus, such as corner outfield”
— Andy Kostka, Reporter
The Ambiguity Surrounding Mayo’s Fit Raises Concerns for Orioles
Elias’s remarks suggest Mayo might not secure a definite role on the Orioles’ Opening Day roster, increasing speculation that he could be used as a trade asset instead of an everyday player. Given Baltimore could open the season with up to five outfielders—excluding utility player Jeremiah Jackson who can also cover outfield positions—the rationale behind trying Mayo in the outfield remains unclear.
Jackson Holliday is expected to miss Opening Day due to a hand injury, leading to speculation that Mayo might be trained for second base during spring training. However, Mayo has virtually no experience at second base in professional play and only a brief stint at shortstop in the rookie complex league back in 2021. This adds to the uncertainty about where Mayo will best fit on the roster.
Mayo’s Trade Value and Future Prospects
For teams seeking a first baseman, Mayo presents an appealing option due to his youth and control through the 2031 season. This potentially gives him greater trade value than Mountcastle, a fellow first-round pick. While the Orioles appear to be experimenting with Mayo’s defensive positioning, the most prudent approach could be to keep him at first base and allow his hitting to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season.
Though this might not guarantee him a spot on the Opening Day lineup, Mayo’s resurgence at the plate would enhance his attractiveness as a trade candidate, which could become a valuable asset for Baltimore when addressing roster needs at the season’s trade deadline.
Mike Elias said Coby Mayo's focus will be first base but that the coaching staff will talk to him about the possibility of additional positional focus, such as corner outfield
— Andy Kostka (@afkostka) February 10, 2026
