BREAKING NEWS: Former Baltimore orioles head coach Buck Showalte who is also former professional Minor League Baseball player and television analyst for ESPN and the YES Network sent a message to baltimore orioles manager Tony Mansolino concerning….

In a dramatic turn of events that has sparked widespread buzz across the Major League Baseball community, former Baltimore Orioles head coach Buck Showalter—who also boasts a storied history as a former professional Minor League Baseball player and esteemed television analyst for ESPN and the YES Network—has sent a bold and heartfelt message to current Orioles manager Tony Mansolino. The message, which reportedly addresses the direction of the team, their young roster, and the expectations surrounding Baltimore’s promising 2025 season, has left fans, players, and analysts abuzz with speculation.

While the contents of the full message have not been officially disclosed, reliable sources within the Orioles’ inner circle confirm that Showalter reached out to Mansolino earlier this week through a personal letter, which was later followed by a phone call. Several portions of the letter were leaked to The Baltimore Chronicle, and the message seems to be a mix of encouragement, critique, and deep reflection on the past and future of the Orioles franchise.

“This team reminds me of 2014… but hungrier.”

Showalter, who led the Orioles from 2010 to 2018 and guided them to several playoff appearances—including a memorable run in 2014—began his message by expressing admiration for the current Orioles squad.

“This team reminds me of 2014,” wrote Showalter. “But hungrier. There’s a fire in these young men, a spirit that feels like Baltimore baseball at its peak. Tony, you’re sitting on something special.”

Indeed, the Orioles of 2025 have continued to build on their success from the previous few seasons. With breakout stars like Jackson Holliday, Gunnar Henderson, and Grayson Rodriguez leading the way, the Orioles currently hold one of the best records in the American League. Tony Mansolino, who officially took over managerial duties in 2024 after Brandon Hyde stepped down due to health concerns, has been credited with fostering an aggressive, fearless, and energetic style of play.

From Advice to Accountability

While praising the Orioles’ current core, Showalter also offered sobering reminders of the pressures that come with managing a young, high-potential team.

“Talent is only half the battle,” he continued. “Leadership, resilience, and emotional maturity are what carry you through October. Don’t let this group get too high or too low. You’ve got to be the ballast, the steady hand in the storm.”

He then referred to some of the challenges he himself faced while managing a Baltimore team with high hopes, particularly during the disappointing 2016 Wild Card loss to the Toronto Blue Jays—where he infamously left star closer Zach Britton unused during an extra-inning defeat.

“I made mistakes. Big ones. Some that still keep me up at night. Learn from them, Tony. Don’t let the moment control you. Trust your gut, but don’t ignore the math. Baseball’s changed since my day, but the heart of it hasn’t.”

This segment of the letter has gained traction on social media, with many fans and journalists interpreting it as a combination of wisdom and self-awareness that only a veteran like Showalter could deliver.

Addressing the Clubhouse Culture

Showalter, who was always known as a manager who fiercely protected his clubhouse and maintained a structured environment, also emphasized the importance of internal culture.

“I hope you’re demanding excellence every day,” he wrote. “But also giving them room to grow, fail, and fight through adversity. I remember watching Manny [Machado], Schoop, and Adam [Jones] mature under fire. It’s not easy. These kids need to know you have their back, even when the numbers don’t.”

Current Orioles players were reportedly moved when Mansolino read parts of Showalter’s message aloud during a team meeting. One anonymous source within the team said it “lit a fire” under the clubhouse and showed the players how deeply embedded their team is in Baltimore’s baseball legacy.

“Buck’s words reminded us we’re part of something bigger than ourselves,” the source said. “He didn’t just build a team, he helped build a culture. We want to honor that.”

A Warning About the Postseason

The most gripping section of Showalter’s message, according to insiders, came when he issued a blunt warning about the postseason:

“Everyone wants a ring until they see what it takes to earn one. You will face injury, doubt, slumps, media pressure, and the sheer randomness that is October baseball. Prepare them now. Not in September. Now.”

Showalter also encouraged Mansolino to rely heavily on his pitching depth and not to burn out his bullpen in August.

“If you think your starters need a break, give it to them. Protect your arms. October will chew them up otherwise. Trust me—I’ve seen it.”

Many analysts have already begun dissecting this particular part of the message, noting that Baltimore’s pitching staff—while young and effective—has been heavily utilized during a grueling midseason schedule.

Passing the Torch

Perhaps the most emotional portion of the letter came toward the end, where Showalter appeared to pass the proverbial torch to Mansolino.

“I’ve worn that orange and black. I’ve stood in that dugout and watched Camden Yards come alive like a church choir after a grand slam. It’s your turn now. Make Baltimore proud.”

Those words, simple yet powerful, have been hailed as a significant endorsement of Mansolino’s leadership.

Orioles fans, many of whom still hold Showalter in high regard despite his controversial exit in 2018, have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to express their appreciation for the moment of mentorship between two generations of Orioles leadership.

Reaction from the Orioles Organization

In a press conference following the Orioles’ 6–3 victory over the Yankees on Friday night, Tony Mansolino was asked about the message.

“Yeah, Buck reached out,” Mansolino said with a smile. “Let’s just say he reminded me why Baltimore means so much to so many. I’ve got big shoes to fill, and I’m not trying to be Buck. But I’m honored to have his support.”

Orioles General Manager Mike Elias also spoke briefly about the communication, saying, “Buck Showalter is a legend in this town. His experience and passion are unmatched. We’re lucky to have someone like him still rooting for us, even from the outside.”

What’s Next?

As the Orioles continue their march toward what many hope will be a deep postseason run, the timing of Showalter’s message could not have been more fitting. With the trade deadline approaching and expectations mounting, the young squad has found a renewed sense of focus—thanks in part to a voice from the past who still believes in Baltimore baseball.