Orioles’ Gary Sanchez Declares Free Agency After Disappointing Season

UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Baltimore Orioles have lost catcher Gary Sanchez to free agency, as confirmed by the MLB transactions list on CBSSports.com earlier today. This marks a significant shift for the team following a disappointing 2025 season, plagued by injuries and unmet playoff expectations.

Sanchez has elected to pursue opportunities elsewhere after a challenging tenure with the Orioles. Appearing in just 29 games last season, he posted a batting average of .231, with five home runs and a .715 OPS over 101 at-bats. His struggles were especially apparent against left-handed pitchers, managing only a .211 average in those matchups.

The catcher’s season was further marred by a knee sprain that sidelined him for a significant portion of the year, preventing him from capitalizing on a brief hot streak where he hit .295 with a .574 slugging percentage in the 17 games prior to his injury. As Sanchez recovered, the Orioles turned to their top prospect, Samuel Basallo, for the remainder of the season, solidifying the team’s future at the catcher position.

While Sanchez’s performance in 2025 was underwhelming, his potential remains evident. With seven extra-base hits in limited at-bats, he could be a valuable addition in a backup role for a team willing to take a chance on his power at the plate.

Rumors are swirling that Sanchez may return to his former team, the New York Yankees, who are in search of a right-handed hitting catcher to complement their left-handed options, Ben Rice and Austin Wells. If Sanchez can secure a full season of health, this signing could prove to be one of the more impactful moves of the offseason.

As the free agency period heats up, Sanchez’s decision could have significant implications for the Orioles and the teams vying for his services. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this storyline develops in the coming days.

Stay tuned for further updates as the offseason progresses and more players enter the free agency market.