ESPN CONFIRMED: His efforts and dedication have taken him to another position; the head coach of Baltimore Orioles Craig Albernaz send a message to Baltimore Orioles owner David Rubenstein concerning his new……..see more

Craig Albernaz’s Rise and His Message to David Rubenstein

When a franchise like the Baltimore Orioles undergoes a leadership change, attention naturally focuses on the incoming manager’s credentials, philosophy and vision. Craig Albernaz’s appointment ticks all those boxes — and more. What stands out most, however, is the clear message he directed to owner David Rubenstein, signalling that this isn’t simply a title change — it’s a new chapter.

From catcher to manager

Albernaz’s journey is one of perseverance. Undrafted out of Eckerd College, he signed with the Tampa Bay Rays organization in 2006 and played nine seasons in the minor leagues, never quite reaching the majors.

Transitioning into coaching, he climbed the ranks:

• Minor-League manager and field coordinator in the Rays system, earning Midwest League Manager of the Year in 2018.

• Major-League bullpen and catching coach for the San Francisco Giants

• Bench coach and associate manager for the Cleveland Guardians (2024-25).

Now, he’s been named manager of the Orioles — the 21st in the franchise’s modern history.

Why Albernaz was chosen

The decision to hire Albernaz rests not only on his résumé, but on what stakeholders deem the club needs right now. From interviews and coverage:

• The Orioles’ 2025 season was disappointing

• Albernaz is seen as a candidate who blends player-development chops with a modern mindset — crucial given the young core (Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, etc.).

• His personality matters. In his introductory remarks, he emphasized authenticity and connection with players: “Players want to know who is in their corner … you tell the player the truth.”

The message to David Rubenstein: Alignment and expectation

In the press conference where Albernaz was introduced, he was flanked by two significant figures: President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias and owner David Rubenstein.

What Albernaz effectively communicated through his tone and words:

• Respect for the organization’s history: Despite not having MLB playing experience, he embraced the weight of managing a storied franchise.

• Commitment to readiness: He admitted that although he had prior managerial opportunities, this one felt right. “Going through the process … it became clear that I want to be in Baltimore … with this organization.”

• Emphasis on players, not ego: He repeatedly stressed the culture will be set by the players and that coaches front offices support them. “Coaches don’t play … It’s all about the boys.”

• Shared ambition with ownership: When Rubenstein declared that “we don’t have particular constraints … we’re going to try to get the best players we can,” Albernaz’s presence signalled he’s aligned with that goal.

In sum: The message to Rubenstein is, “I’m here to lead this project in lock-step with your ambition.”

What the stakes are

For the Orioles, the timing is significant:

• They have an abundant young talent pool but under-performed in 2025.

• Ownership appears ready to invest. Rubenstein has openly stated there’s no hard financial limit.

• The division is strong; turnaround won’t be easy, but doable. As Rubenstein noted: “Remember, Toronto was in last place the year they went to the World Series.”

Key challenges for Albernaz

• Managing expectations: With investment promised and young stars ready, fans will demand improvement — not just in wins, but in culture and identity.

• Turning talent into results: The roster may be talented, but converting that into consistent success is the trick.

• Establishing authority and trust: As a first-time MLB manager, earning full confidence of players, coaches and the front-office will be crucial.

• Aligning with ownership vision without overreach: Balancing a willingness to spend (as ownership signals) with smart decision-making will test his relationship with Rubenstein and Elias.

Conclusion

Craig Albernaz’s elevation to manager of the Baltimore Orioles marks a significant shift. It’s not merely a new face in the dugout — it’s a signal that the organization’s leadership wants more: a new culture, new energy, and renewed hope. His message to David Rubinstein and the ownership group is clear: I’m ready. I’m aligned. Let’s make this happen together.