The Cleveland Guardians lost a pivotal figure in their organization.
Assistant manager Craig Albernaz is leaving to become manager of the Baltimore Orioles.
Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt recently shared an emotional message to bid him farewell.
“It’s not often you get to work in this game with one of your best friends. The two years I got to spend with Craig will be two years I cherish more than any in my career. He’s going to crush it in Baltimore. I’m ecstatic for him,” Vogt said.
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt on Albernaz: “It’s not often you get to work in this game with one of your best friends. The two years I got to spend with Craig will be two years I cherish more than any in my career. He’s going to crush it in Baltimore. I’m ecstatic for him.” https://t.co/6XXjOsjCsb
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) October 27, 2025
Albernaz is seen as an up-and-coming leader after climbing his way through the minors and earning a reputation as someone who can connect with young players.
That should help him greatly with Baltimore, as the Orioles have a promising and solid core that should’ve performed much better this season.
Of course, this is bad news for Vogt and the Guardians, but it’s just part of the deal working with talented people.
Now, they need to make sure Vogt doesn’t leave.
He signed a three-year contract when he was hired and is about to enter its final season.
There have been plenty of rumblings regarding his future with Cleveland, and the sides are reportedly working on an extension that would keep him with the organization for years to come.
Even though this season didn’t end the way the Guardians hoped, it’s safe to say that he’s earned the right to stay.
Cleveland should continue to be a competitive force in the AL Central for as long as Vogt is there.
NEXT: Guardians Named Among Potential Landing Spots For Former All-Star MVP
