SARASOTA, Fla. — Baltimore Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo left a game Thursday due to right side abdominal discomfort shortly after making a sweeping tag at home plate. The incident happened during an exhibition game when Basallo lunged to tag out Detroit Tigers’ Matt Vierling, who was sliding headfirst in an attempt to score from first base on a double by Hao-Yu Lee.
Details of the Injury and Game Situation
Though there was no direct collision, Basallo’s gloved left arm became entangled with Vierling’s left arm as the runner slid toward the plate’s outer edge. Orioles manager Craig Albernaz described Basallo’s removal as a precaution, stating he does not expect the catcher to require further medical tests.
“It’s Feb. 26, saw his reaction, goes down,”
Albernaz said following Baltimore’s 6-5 win over Detroit.
“To me, he could have stayed in the game, but that was me being the voice of reason to get him out of there and make sure everything was fine.”
– Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager
Vierling ended up on his stomach with his body twisting away from the plate, while Basallo landed hard on his stomach, grimacing in pain, then rolling onto his back. The play resulted in the second out of the third inning, and Basallo exited the field after an athletic trainer tended to him for several minutes.
Basallo’s Background and Team Role
The 21-year-old Basallo made his Major League Baseball debut on August 17 last year. He recently signed a $67 million, eight-year contract with the Orioles—the richest ever for a pre-arbitration catcher—and his deal includes a team option for 2034. Last season, Basallo appeared in 31 games, hitting .165 with four home runs and 15 RBIs.
Despite the presence of star catcher Adley Rutschman, Basallo is expected to receive significant playing time behind the plate. Additionally, he may serve as the designated hitter or occasionally play first base, giving the Orioles versatility in their lineup.
Implications for the Orioles Moving Forward
Basallo’s abdominal discomfort is a concern for the Orioles, especially given his key role and lucrative contract. However, the team’s cautious approach in removing him from the game suggests they aim to prevent any serious injury. The situation will be closely monitored, with a focus on ensuring Basallo’s health before the regular season begins. His availability remains important for Baltimore’s roster depth alongside players like Adley Rutschman and the recent addition of Estrada following Westburg’s injury.
