Sugano’s First Look in Orioles Uniform Brings Encouraging Signs

Spring Training games often focus on player development rather than results, and the Baltimore Orioles saw plenty of positives despite falling 7-3 to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The most anticipated moment of the day came from Tomoyuki Sugano, the Japanese veteran making his long-awaited MLB debut.

Sugano, who joined the Orioles this offseason after a successful career in Japan, turned in an impressive performance over two scoreless innings. The right-hander allowed two hits and a walk while flashing a deep mix of pitches that kept Pirates hitters off balance.

Sugano’s Poise and Precision Stand Out

From the first pitch, Sugano showcased his veteran presence, working quickly and efficiently. After giving up a leadoff single, he induced a double play and ended the first inning in just six pitches. His second inning was more of a test, as Adam Frazier singled and Isaiah Kiner-Falefa worked a walk, but Sugano calmly retired the next batter to escape unscathed.

After the game, Sugano expressed satisfaction with his first outing. “The first inning was quick, but in the second, I was working on a few things,” he said through an interpreter. “Overall, it felt good.”

Sugano’s pitch arsenal was on full display, as he mixed in a four-seam fastball, cutter, sinker, curveball, changeup, and sweeper. His fastball topped out at 93 mph, while his curveball had a significant speed differential, dropping as low as 74 mph.

Building Chemistry Behind the Plate

Catcher Gary Sánchez, who was behind the plate for Sugano’s debut, praised his new battery mate’s command. “His stuff is really sharp, and we were able to mix in a lot of different pitches,” Sánchez said. “His split looked great, and he hit his spots well.”

Sugano acknowledged that getting used to MLB's pitch clock and using PitchCom were new elements he was adjusting to. “The communication with Sánchez was great,” he added. “We talked a lot before and during the game.”

A Tough Outing for Orioles Pitching Staff

While Sugano’s debut was a highlight, the rest of Baltimore’s pitching staff had a more challenging day. The game remained tight through the first four innings before Pittsburgh broke through in the fifth. A fielding error by Jackson Holliday allowed a run to score, followed by another run off reliever Kade Strowd.

In the sixth, Matt Bowman allowed a two-run homer to Matt Gorski, who has been a thorn in the Orioles’ side this spring. More trouble followed in the later innings, as Corbin Martin and Rodolfo Martinez each surrendered additional runs to push the Pirates’ lead further.

Orioles’ Offense Finds Some Bright Spots

The Orioles struggled to string together consistent offense but did manage some productive at-bats. Liván Soto drove in the team’s first run with an RBI double in the fifth, while Dylan Carlson added an RBI single in the sixth. Catching prospect Samuel Basallo chipped in with a sacrifice fly in the seventh for Baltimore’s final run of the day.

Despite the loss, manager Brandon Hyde focused on the positives. “Our work in the back fields has been great, and guys are gaining valuable experience,” Hyde said. “The more reps these players get, the more they’ll be ready for the regular season.”

What’s Next for the Orioles?

The Orioles will continue their spring schedule with Grayson Rodriguez set to take the mound against the Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday. Zach Eflin will follow on Friday against the Minnesota Twins, and Cade Povich is slated to pitch against Pittsburgh on Saturday.

As for Sugano, his next start will be eagerly anticipated, as he looks to solidify his role in Baltimore’s rotation. If his debut was any indication, he could become a key contributor for the Orioles this season.

Stay tuned to Birdland Flock for more Orioles coverage throughout Spring Training.