Samuel Basallo’s MLB debut with Baltimore was followed by an eight-year, $67 million extension, signaling a long-term bet on a 21-year-old catching talent. Five days later, he delivered his first walk-off, a 433-foot shot off Tanner Scott to lift the Orioles 2-1 over the Dodgers. With Adley Rutschman sidelined by injuries, Basallo flashed power and plate discipline beyond his age, offering a glimpse of a future cornerstone behind the plate as Baltimore navigates catcher depth.

The scoreboard moment capped a rapid rise: Basallo entered the season as a top-15 prospect, wasn’t called up until August, and has since shown he can swing for impact in clutch moments. Baltimore’s investment underscores confidence in his development path and his potential to become a middle-of-the-order threat while the organization builds around him and Rutschman.