Baltimore — The Baltimore Orioles announced Jared Banner as the franchise’s new general manager on Tuesday, signaling a fresh start for a club that has struggled over the past two seasons. Banner, formerly an assistant general manager with the Chicago Cubs, addressed a packed press conference with a clear message to fans and the organization.
Commitment to Fans and Players
“To the fans, I want you to know: I know you’re frustrated. It’s been a rough couple of years,” Banner said. “We’re frustrated too. But you have our commitment. We’re going to build a winner here in Baltimore.” He acknowledged the disappointment surrounding recent sub‑.500 campaigns and promised a renewed focus on internal talent.
Roles and Responsibilities
Team president Mike Elias explained that Banner will oversee all aspects of player development, including internal coaching, health care, and performance analytics. “Jared will take over everything to do with our internal players, our internal coaches. Player development, performance, health care, all of that is going to fall under his umbrella,” Elias said. “I will then work more directly on the scouting and acquisition side of the equation — pro, international, amateur, contracts, things like that. But we will be running the whole team together.”
Addressing Development Gaps
The Orioles’ recent setbacks have been linked to the growth of young stars such as Gunnar Henderson, Colton Cowser and Jackson Holliday. Banner pledged to tackle those issues head‑on. “We’re going to challenge all of our processes,” he asserted. “And we might have to get comfortable being uncomfortable. One of my main player development philosophies is we have to make practice more like the game, so the game gets easier once you get in there.”
Looking Ahead Amid Uncertainty
Following the trade of former cornerstone catcher Adley Rutschman, the Orioles face an uncertain future, compounded by the looming MLB lockout. Elias noted that once labor negotiations are resolved, the organization will be under significant pressure to return to contention. Banner’s confidence was evident when he added, “In baseball circles, which is a long way from Twitter, we know Mike’s one of the most talented executives in the game, hands down.”
Honoring Franchise Legends
Banner also paid tribute to Orioles legends, confirming a lunch meeting with Cal Ripken Jr., a member of the team’s ownership group, and noting recent contact with Hall of Famer Jim Palmer. “First and foremost, I made sure I hit Jim back right away,” Banner said, referencing Palmer’s recent advice to manager Craig Albernaz about Cowser on the “Bmore Sports Podcast.”
What This Means for Baltimore
For Orioles supporters, Banner’s appointment represents a commitment to rebuilding from within, emphasizing a disciplined, game‑like practice environment and a respect for the franchise’s storied past. While the lockout remains a variable, the new leadership team’s clear division of duties aims to restore the club’s competitive edge and bring back the excitement that Baltimore fans have long deserved.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
