The Baltimore Orioles have finalized a landmark eight-year, $67 million contract extension with top prospect Samuel Basallo, according to sources close to the deal who have spoken to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The agreement is set to be officially announced in the coming days, as the club looks to anchor its future around the young right-handed pitcher. This comes just one week after Basallo made his Major League Baseball debut, showcasing the rapid progression of the 21-year-old prospect.
Basallo, a second-round pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, has been a key part of the Orioles’ farm system since joining the organization. His ascent to the majors has been marked by impressive performances in the minors, with his professional debut at the end of the 2023 season. The new contract is seen as a major investment in his potential, with the Orioles looking to secure his services for the next eight seasons.
The deal is expected to provide significant stability for the Orioles’ rotation, as they seek to build a competitive team in the coming years. Basallo’s ability to pitch effectively at the major league level has been a source of optimism for the club, and the extension is viewed as a strategic move to ensure his development and future success. The new contract will also have implications for the team’s salary structure and long-term plans for the franchise.