Question: After the signing of Samuel Basallo after only a few games in the majors, do you think they were a little quick to sign him and do you know if the team has made any offers to the other young players that are playing well? From: Bob Brown
Answer: Bob, I’ve received lots of similar questions from readers, including Mark Shaull, Marsha Smelkinson, Jerry Flanigan and Rick Little.
I think the Orioles are eager to consider contract extensions for Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday and Jordan Westburg, in particular, but they’re all represented by Scott Boras, who has often discouraged his clients from deals such as the one signed by Basallo.
That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t sign an extension, but I think it would be unlikely.
Henderson and Adley Rutschman both declined this weekend to comment on whether they’ve been approached about extensions, and with Rutschman having a difficult season, I would be surprised if there was serious consideration of an extension.
As for Dylan Beavers, I think it’s a little early. If you had asked me a week ago about a possible Basallo extension, I would have said that, too.
Question: It seems that Tony Mansolino might be passed over for the permanent managerial position, although it’s not yet set in stone. Can you imagine a situation where he stays in the organization but is not manager? He seems like a quality guy with a lot to offer the team, even if he is not in the manager’s role? From: Michael Chefalo
Answer: Michael, I think if Tony Mansolino isn’t named the manager for 2026 and beyond, he’d seek an on-field position with another team. He’s young, just 42, and think he’d have a lot to offer a team. He’s become more visible around baseball with the job he’s done. I don’t think he’d have trouble finding a suitable position if he’s not with the Orioles next season.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.