Baltimore Orioles are finding out what the Toronto Blue Jays already knew about Chris Bassitt

After three seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, Chris Bassitt signed a one-year, $18.5 million contract with the division rival Baltimore Orioles in February.

Through the early stages of the 2026 season, Bassitt has struggled, posting a 9.00 ERA and a 0-2 record over his first three starts.

Bassitt's 2026 debut has been characterized by high walk totals and early-inning struggles, failing to complete five innings in any of his starts.

Bassitt has never been a hard thrower, he relies on deception with an 8-pitch arsenal and contact management, utilizing a sinker (40%+) alongside a cutter, curveball, and sweeper.

In his Orioles debut versus the Texas Rangers, Bassitt allowed 4 runs on 6 hits and 4 walks.

In his second outing vs the Pittsburgh Pirates Bassitt got lit up for six runs lasting only two innings, and was also hit by a line drive, but remained in game.

After two starts Bassitt's ERA was 27.00

In his most recent start against the San Francisco Giants Bassitt improved, pitching to a 1.93 ERA, allowing only two run in 4.2 innings reducing his overall ERA to 9.00.

In that outing he was much improved however, Bassitt still couldn't make it past the fifth inning.

The Blue Jays may have dodged a Bullitt by letting Bassitt walk, or he may improve over the course of the season and prove he is still a workhorse, but at 37-years old it seems the odds are long

Bassitt has played for the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, New York Mets, and Toronto Blue Jays before joining Baltimore.

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