Jason Bourgeois is hired by the Orioles to coach first base
Jason Bourgeois, a former MLB outfielder, will serve as the new first-base coach for the Baltimore Orioles. The team continues to reorganize its coaching staff for the 2026 season. Craig Albernaz, now the bench coach and a key leader on the staff, is guiding this new phase of coaching changes. Bourgeois’ arrival is part of a broader effort to strengthen player development and on-field strategy. Albernaz is assisting in improving the team’s on-field strategy and developmental approach.
The Orioles think that Bourgeois’ combination of player experience, teaching ability, and clubhouse presence will help them achieve their continued competitive objectives as they enter the 2026 season.
Jason Bourgeois: Who Is He? An Examination of His MLB Career
Jason Bourgeois played for the Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, and Tampa Bay Rays during portions of eight seasons in the major leagues. Though he played mostly in the outfield, Bourgeois was known for his quickness, adaptability, and keen baseball sense.
Important Aspects of Bourgeois’ Playing Career
2008 saw the Chicago White Sox make their MLB debut.
2015 was the Cincinnati Reds’ final MLB season.
Career Known For: Quickness on the base, adaptability on defence, and a focus on the team
These characteristics fit the Orioles’ on-field persona, especially given the team’s continued emphasis on athleticism, aggressive base running, and defensive awareness.
The Orioles’ Reasons for Selecting Bourgeois
The Orioles front office described Bourgeois as a coach who values baseball fundamentals and understands the modern game. His coaching style focuses on communication, clarity, and confidence-building. It reflects his journey from player to instructor across several minor-league and developmental coaching roles.
The Orioles are focussing on coaching strengths.
Teaching effective base running and stealing techniques
Enhancing player reading comprehension and response times
assisting young utility players and outfielders
Bringing excellent communication skills to the clubhouse
As first-base coach, Bourgeois will guide the Orioles’ base running strategy. It has been a key part of their play in recent years.
Craig Albernaz’s Role and the Orioles’ Staff Expansion
Craig Albernaz, previously known for his catching expertise and tactical approach, has taken on increased responsibility in shaping the Orioles’ dugout leadership structure. With the departure of several assistants last season, Baltimore looked to create a staff that blends innovation with experience. Albernaz’s influence has focused on selecting coaches who communicate well, understand player development, and work effectively with data-driven strategy. Bourgeois aligns with that approach, particularly in how he has coached in minor league systems where analytics support in-game decision making.
Effect on the On-Field Strategy of the Orioles
By combining strong bullpen depth, fast baserunning, and power hitting, Baltimore has established itself as one of the league’s most well-rounded teams. Bourgeois is viewed by the coaching staff as an additional asset to improve player awareness on the basepaths.
Expected Duties for Bourgeois on the Field
directing base runners while the game is in progress
Helping hitters on the bases with situational awareness
Providing communication and tactical cues during games
assisting outfielders in honing their footwork and positioning during pregame exercises
His first-hand knowledge of how to use speed to overwhelm defences could encourage the Orioles to create even more runs in close games.
Clubhouse Response and Player Reactions
Players appear to be optimistic based on early internal responses. Many young Orioles players respect coaches with recent league experience who understand today’s game demands. Bourgeois’s friendly nature and reputation as a “team glue” player are already seen as valuable assets in the locker room.
The Orioles’ steady progress in recent seasons comes from their focus on maintaining a confident, united team culture.
Implications for the Orioles in 2026
The coaching changes made by the Orioles demonstrate a focus on building on strengths rather than starting from scratch. The team is still hungry, competitive, and ready to contend in the postseason again. Including a coach with a reputation for enhancing athletes’ concentration and athletic performance could improve crucial areas like:
Efficiency of base running
Awareness of defensive coverage
Strategy for late-inning games
Integration of younger rosters
Bourgeois is anticipated to have an impact on situational drills and player development sessions as the team gets ready for spring training.
Conclusion: A Culture-Based and Strategic Appointment
Craig Albernaz’s choice to appoint Jason Bourgeois as first-base coach is consistent with Baltimore’s long-term competitive strategy. The Orioles’ focus on team chemistry and athletic discipline is enhanced by Bourgeois’s mentoring style, demonstrated teaching ability, and relatable playing experience.
This coaching change shows confidence in creating a staff that fosters player development and performance as Baltimore looks to make the playoffs in 2026.
