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Orioles Lock Up Top Prospect to $67 Million Extension Five Days After MLB Debut
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- Orioles Lock Up Top Prospect to $67 Million Extension Five Days After MLB Debut
Credit: James A. Pittman-Imagn Images
The Orioles found reason to celebrate today despite sitting in last place in the American League East. Baltimore reportedly signed top prospect Samuel Basallo , 21, to an eight-year, $67 million extension, according to Baltimore Banner's Andy Kostka.
Escalators in the contract can push the total to $88.5 million, and the deal includes a club option for 2034.
The signing comes five days after Basallo made his MLB debut against Houston , going 1-for-4 with two RBI.
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MLB Pipeline ranked Basallo, who plays catcher and first base, as baseball's eighth-best prospect, while ESPN's Kiley McDaniel rated him even higher at No. 4.
"Basallo has legit 40-homer potential and might be an every-day catcher. He is a good enough framer and blocker, and he has a plus arm, though his exchange and accuracy are lacking a bit," writes McDaniel, adding, "Basallo has to be ranked high because he's a 21-year-old catcher who just got called up to the majors and could lead the league in homers in a few years."
Before his call-up, Basallo dominated Triple-A pitching. In 76 games with Norfolk, he posted a .966 OPS with 23 home runs, 17 doubles, 49 runs and 67 RBI.
Through his first four MLB games, Basallo is batting .286 (4-for-14) with one double, one run and five RBI.
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Impact on Adley Rutschman 's Future
Credit: Lexi Thompson-Imagn Images
Basallo's extension raises questions about Adley Rutschman's long-term future in Baltimore. Rutschman, the O's 2019 first overall pick and two-time All-Star, has struggled significantly this season, slashing .227/.310/.373 with nine home runs and a 92 OPS+.
Baltimore can certainly accommodate both players, with Basallo capable of playing first base while Rutschman remains behind the plate. However, if the Orioles decide to make Rutschman available, the 27-year-old catcher — who won't reach free agency until after 2027 — would attract plenty of suitors.
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