Former Baltimore Orioles Pitcher, Key Trade Piece, Retires from MLB. As Orioles Put Gary Sanchez On IL, Trade With Yankees For Former 1st Round Pick As Replacement.

Former Baltimore Orioles Pitcher and Key Trade Piece Dan Straily Announces Retirement from MLB; Orioles Respond to Injury Setback, Acquire Catcher Alex Jackson from Yankees to Replace Gary Sánchez

In a week full of pivotal roster moves and unexpected turns, former Baltimore Orioles pitcher Dan Straily has officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, bringing a close to a professional career that spanned over a decade. Once a key trade acquisition for the Orioles, Straily’s journey through the majors was marked by moments of brilliance, veteran consistency, and resilience. His retirement was confirmed through a personal statement shared with fans and reporters, in which he expressed gratitude for his time in Baltimore and across the league.

“Baseball gave me everything,” Straily wrote. “From the highs to the lows, I’ll always cherish the teammates, the fans, and the journey. It’s time to shift my focus to the next chapter of my life—with family and coaching opportunities ahead.”

Straily, 35, had stints with several MLB teams, including the Oakland Athletics, Cincinnati Reds, Miami Marlins, and the Orioles. Known for his savvy pitching approach and leadership in the clubhouse, his role in Baltimore’s rebuilding years made him a valuable asset and a mentor for younger arms in the rotation.

Just hours after the news of Straily’s retirement broke, the Orioles were hit with another blow, placing veteran catcher Gary Sánchez on the injured list due to a lower-body strain sustained during a game against the Red Sox. The injury leaves a significant void behind the plate for Baltimore, both defensively and offensively.

Acting swiftly, the Orioles executed a trade with the New York Yankees, acquiring catcher Alex Jackson to serve as Sánchez’s temporary replacement. Jackson, a former first-round pick, brings power potential and defensive depth, and is expected to split duties with backup James McCann.

Orioles GM Mike Elias addressed the moves in a press conference, stating, “We’re sad to see Dan walk away, but we’re thankful for what he gave this organization. As for Gary’s injury, we’re optimistic about a quick recovery, and we believe Alex Jackson can step in and keep us competitive behind the plate.”

As the Orioles continue to push for postseason relevance, these back-to-back developments highlight the organization’s need to adapt and stay aggressive—on the field and in the front office.