Can Shane Baz Revive His Slider and Ignite the Orioles' Pitching? The Baltimore Orioles are making waves, and one key piece of their strategy involves right-handed pitcher Shane Baz. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays, Baz is looking to rediscover a crucial pitch that went missing in action: his slider. But can he bring it back to help the Orioles dominate? Let's dive in!
Baz's potential is undeniable. He once struck out two batters with a blazing 99 mph four-seam fastball in a single inning during the 2021 Futures Game. He's reuniting with familiar faces, including catcher Adley Rutschman, which could boost his confidence. But here's where it gets controversial: Baz has faced a tough road. He underwent Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for a significant period. Since returning, he's shown flashes of brilliance, and the Orioles are banking on him to become a consistent force in their rotation.
Baz is already connecting with Baltimore's pitching instructors, eager to absorb their insights. "I just want to be as coachable as I can," he stated, highlighting his commitment to improvement. His immediate focus is on his slider and cutter combination. In 2021, the slider was a key weapon. But in 2025, it vanished. He struggled with it, leading to a high batting average and slugging percentage against the pitch.
So, Baz made a tough decision: he put the slider on hold and adopted a cutter. The cutter offered similar movement but with greater control. It also generated a 26.4% whiff rate. Now, the question is: will he bring both pitches back? He'll experiment with his five-pitch mix during spring training, seeking the perfect combination.
Of course, his fastball will remain central to his success. His average fastball velocity reached 97 mph last season, his highest since 2021. He even hit 100 mph ten times! This improvement came from a deeper understanding of his body and preparation. He's learned what works best for him, allowing him to maintain his stamina and velocity.
Remaining healthy is a top priority for Baz and the Orioles, especially after injuries impacted their performance last year. That's why the team has been aggressive in the offseason. They've acquired players like Pete Alonso, Ryan Helsley, and Taylor Ward, with their eyes set on adding another top-tier starting pitcher.
Baz is optimistic about the team's direction. "That gives you a little more motivation," he said, "just to set the standard and just winning is all that matters."
What do you think? Will Baz's return to form be a game-changer for the Orioles? Do you think he should focus on the slider or the cutter? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
