BALTIMORE —
The Baltimore Orioles have laid off 16 employees within their business operations, including Mr. Splash and Oriole Bird, prompting mixed reactions from fans and officials.
Madison Lester, manager of Pickles Pub and a die-hard Orioles fan, shared her disappointment about the news.
“It’s actually really sad and unfortunate, it makes me feel like the lockout is going to be real this year,” Lester said.
She added, “And that’s something we don’t want to happen as Oriole fans, so it’s a little disappointing.”
The layoffs have drawn national attention, with fans expressing their concerns.
“Oh no, we don’t need no cuts out here, ma’am, we need to keep them people here,” said Lamar Gillespie, an Orioles fan.
Another fan, Kyle Umstead, said, “It sucks definitely, you hate to see anybody lose their job.”
The Orioles confirmed the layoffs but declined to comment on specific employees. A team spokesperson assured fans that the Oriole Bird mascot, portrayed by multiple individuals, will remain part of the team.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott also weighed in on the situation.
“We know how big of a deal the Bird and Mr. Splash is,” Scott said. “You see the Bird at school events, you see all of that. But I think more importantly, I want to know are we going to win next year, that’s what I want to know.”
With the 2026 season behind them, fans are hoping for a resolution that brings back key figures off the field.
Umstead shared his thoughts, saying, “With the lockout coming up, kind of, you know, you’re going to see a lot of MLB teams I think cut ties until at least it’s over. I think a lot of people will come back after that.”
Lester added, “If it’s a short time, that’s one thing, but if it’s not back by next year I’ll probably be upset.”
The Orioles confirmed that the Bird Bath will return next season, as the expected lockout approaches in December.