The Baltimore Orioles made an unexpected lineup change ahead of Friday night's series opener against the Atlanta Braves, placing rookie outfielder Dylan Beavers in the leadoff spot for the first time this season.
Baltimore enters the matchup at 50-53, looking to build momentum after taking the final game of its series against the Boston Red Sox. The move comes as manager Craig Albernaz continues searching for offensive consistency with several key injuries affecting the roster.
According to Jake Rill of MLB.com, Beavers has only batted leadoff twice previously in his major league career, with both starts coming on Sept. 24 and 25 during the 2025 season against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Beavers has appeared in 49 games this season, batting .248/.329/.366 with two home runs, 16 RBIs and four stolen bases. His recent production likely influenced the decision, as he's hitting .313/.371/.406 during July entering Friday's game.
The Orioles will follow Beavers with Pete Alonso, Gunnar Henderson and Taylor Ward in the heart of the lineup. Henderson remains in the No. 3 spot for the fourth consecutive game.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Baltimore is also continuing to adjust after losing both of its top catchers. Adley Rutschman is on the injured list with left wrist inflammation, while Samuel Basallo was sidelined with right shoulder inflammation, leaving Chadwick Tromp behind the plate.
The Orioles enter Friday fourth in the American League East at 50-53, trailing the first-place New York Yankees (61-42) by 11 games. Meanwhile, the Braves lead the National League East with a 58-42 record, giving Baltimore another opportunity to gain ground against one of baseball's top clubs.
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