The Baltimore Orioles will host the Minnesota Twins on March 26, 2026, at 3:05 p.m. ET, marking the start of the new MLB season. Both teams are eager to shake off disappointing performances from 2025, with the Orioles looking to capitalize on their offseason acquisitions.
Before this matchup, expectations were mixed. The Orioles, despite a lackluster 2025, are now seen as a dark horse World Series contender, bolstered by the signing of star slugger Pete Alonso. Meanwhile, the Twins struggled with a 1-6 record in Joe Ryan’s last seven starts, raising concerns about their pitching depth.
As the game approaches, the starting pitchers have been confirmed: Trevor Rogers will take the mound for the Orioles, while Joe Ryan is expected to start for the Twins. Rogers had an impressive 1.81 ERA in 2025, a stark contrast to Ryan’s 3.42 ERA, which has left fans questioning the Twins’ chances.
Injuries complicate the situation for both teams. The Orioles are missing key players, including Heston Kjerstad and Felix Bautista, who are on the injured list for 60 days. The Twins are also dealing with injuries, with Travis Adams and Pablo Lopez sidelined. These absences could significantly impact both teams’ performance on Opening Day.
Statistically, both teams scored nearly the same number of runs per game in 2025, with the Twins averaging 4.19 runs and the Orioles at 4.18. This close scoring margin indicates that the game could hinge on pitching effectiveness, especially given the current injury woes.
The stakes are high for both teams as they aim to set a positive tone for the season. The Orioles, with their revamped roster, are eager to prove their critics wrong, while the Twins are desperate to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing previous season.
As fans gear up for the game, the excitement is palpable. The matchup will be broadcast on MASN and Twins.TV, allowing supporters to witness the unfolding drama live.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final lineups, but the anticipation continues to build as both teams prepare for this crucial opening day clash.
