The Baltimore Orioles could not have hoped for a better season from switch-hitting catcher Adley Rutschman. After an underwhelming and injury-filled 2025, Rutschman has responded in a big way.
He has spent some time on the injured list with left ankle inflammation but has mostly been available. Across 53 games, the 28-year-old former first overall pick has posted a .259 batting average, .335 on-base percentage, .802 OPS, eight home runs and 40 RBIs.
His efforts have been a huge reason the Orioles have been able to hover around the .500 mark, and he and teammate Samuel Basallo have formed the best catching tandem in MLB. Still, as the second half of the season approaches, the work is not done, and Rutschman needs to keep producing if he wants to help the Orioles make the playoffs.
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During Thursday's shutout loss against the Seattle Mariners, Rutschman was removed from the game early.
In the top of the ninth inning, he was struck in the head while running to first base as the Mariners attempted to turn a double play. After a brief visit from trainers, he was removed from the contest with Jeremiah Jackson entering the game to pinch-run.
Fortunately, it will not be a long-term issue. Manager Craig Albernaz spoke with reporters after the game and shared a positive update.
Albernaz revealed that while Rutschman was hit in the ear and is being evaluated, the removal from the game was simply a precaution. The Orioles also wanted a faster runner on the bases in Jackson given the situation (h/t Andy Kostka of The Baltimore Banner).
This is positive news for the Orioles, who cannot afford to lose Rutschman's bat in the lineup. His next chance to return will come on Friday in a road series opener against the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
