The offseason hasn’t started on a good note for the Cleveland Guardians.
They’re reportedly losing one of the most important members of their coaching staff, and to an American League foe, no less.
“The Baltimore Orioles have decided to hire Craig Albernaz of the Guardians to become their next manager. He previously was the Guardians associate manager. [Jon Heyman] was first on it,” Bob Nightengale wrote on X.
The Baltimore Orioles have decided to hire Craig Albernaz of the Guardians to become their next manager. He previously was the Guardians associate manager. @JonHeyman was first on it.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) October 27, 2025
Albernaz, who was working under manager Stephen Vogt, was one of the most coveted young MLB coaches.
The 42-year-old will replace Tony Mansolino, who took over after Brandon Hyde was fired during the season.
Despite finishing last in the AL East, Baltimore has a promising core of young players and was a playoff team in 2024.
Albernaz was a finalist for Cleveland’s job in 2023, but he became the team’s bench coach when they chose Vogt as manager instead.
The former minor league catcher has been tabbed as a future manager for a while now.
He had some experience coaching in the minors before joining the San Francisco Giants as a bullpen and catching coach.
He’s known for his ability to connect with younger players, which is something that will come in handy for the Orioles, who should have a strong foundation to compete in the years to come.
Losing him will be a big blow to Vogt’s coaching staff, but it was a well-earned opportunity.
NEXT: Stats Show How Guardians Outfielder Is Struggling In Winter Ball
