Povich optioned as O's pitching staff continues to take shape

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Last year, Cade Povich made an Opening Day roster for the first time in his big league career. The left-hander was the No. 5 starter in the Orioles’ rotation to begin the 2025 season, which came with the assignment of starting the home opener vs. the Red Sox last March 31 at Camden Yards.

But Baltimore’s pitching landscape has become much more crowded since then. Because of that, Povich is now returning to the Minors.

On Sunday, the O’s optioned Povich to Minor League camp, meaning the 25-year-old southpaw will begin the 2026 campaign in Triple-A Norfolk’s rotation. Povich had a 5.20 ERA in 38 games (36 starts) over the past two seasons to begin his MLB career.

It was going to be challenging for Povich to push his way into the Orioles’ rotation this spring. The group is led by co-aces Trevor Rogers (the Opening Day starter) and Kyle Bradish, with Zach Eflin and Dean Kremer returning as well. The O’s also acquired Shane Baz in a trade with the Rays and signed veteran Chris Bassitt to bolster the staff.

So Baltimore has six starters for five spots, unless Eflin begins the year on the injured list (because he is coming off of back surgery) or the O’s go with a six-man rotation. Povich will serve as valuable depth at Triple-A in a rotation that could also include Brandon Young, Albert Suárez and several prospects.

“Everybody being in competition with one another, it only makes each other better,” Povich said earlier in Spring Training. “I think it helps in all aspects. And I think it’s one thing if the competition is like, ‘I’m trying to beat this guy,’ and it’s not friendly. But I think this group of guys in this clubhouse, we’re competing, but we’re also all cheering for each other.”

Manager Craig Albernaz hadn’t ruled out the possibility of Povich beginning the season in the Orioles’ bullpen. The club doesn’t have as many strong options from the left side, and Povich could have also provided length.

“For right now, yes, he’s on the starter path,” Albernaz said earlier this month. “We can always pivot and see what happens in the bullpen. But right now, at the forefront, starting role, and we’ll see how things shake out.”

Povich recorded a 5.21 ERA in 22 games (20 starts) for Baltimore last season. The former prospect had only three quality starts, completing six or more innings four times.

Unless injuries occur, it could continue to be difficult for Povich to get back into the O’s rotation. But he has expressed a willingness to move to relief, if that helps him make an impact in the big leagues at some point this year.

“My goal overall is just to continue trying to execute. We have smart guys behind the scenes that will put me where they see where I will best help the team,” Povich said. “If they say, ‘We think this is going to help the team the best,’ then I’m all for it.”