The Baltimore Orioles are in spring training ahead of the 2026 MLB season, aiming to rebound after missing the playoffs in 2025. To strengthen their lineup, the Orioles signed Pete Alonso from the New York Mets to a significant contract and recently added pitcher Chris Bassitt on a one-year deal.
Lighthearted Moment Between New Teammates During Spring Training
At spring training, Alonso and Bassitt shared a memorable and amusing exchange while facing each other in a simulated at-bat. As reported by Matt Weyrich of the Baltimore Sun on X, Bassitt told Alonso he would only throw one pitch during their encounter. Alonso responded by popping the ball up and exclaiming in frustration. The conversation went back and forth with Bassitt reminding Alonso about the single pitch and Alonso denying prior knowledge of the tactic.
Chris Bassitt told Pete Alonso he’d get one pitch in his last at-bat against him today. Alonso popped it up and groaned, “Dammit.”
“You knew what was coming,” Bassitt said
“No I didn’t,” Alonso shot back.
“I told you one pitch.”
— Matt Weyrich, Baltimore Sun
This playful exchange quickly gained attention across social media, highlighting the growing camaraderie between the Orioles’ recent additions as the team gels ahead of the new season.
Orioles’ Recent Performance and Future Outlook
Once celebrated as a young, promising team due to emerging talents like Gunnar Henderson, the Orioles have faced challenges in recent playoffs. Despite winning 101 games in 2023, they were swept in the ALDS by the Texas Rangers, followed by an early exit in the 2024 Wild Card round, and then missing the postseason entirely in 2025.
By integrating experienced players such as Alonso and Bassitt into their roster, the Orioles hope to regain their regular-season success of 2023 and improve their playoff performance. The team aims to build momentum as they prepare for when the 2026 MLB season begins in late March.
Chris Bassitt told Pete Alonso he'd get one pitch in his last at-bat against him today. Alonso popped it up and groaned, “Dammit.”
“You knew what was coming,” Bassitt said
“No I didn’t,” Alonso shot back.
“I told you one pitch.” pic.twitter.com/hm62ZBiguy
— Matt Weyrich (@ByMattWeyrich) February 24, 2026
