The Baltimore Orioles’ 2025 campaign has come to a close, marked by devastating injuries that contributed to one of the league’s most disappointing seasons. As the club shifts its focus to the offseason and preparations for 2026, Mike Elias acknowledged that a new health concern has already surfaced.
Speaking to reporters, Elias said former first-round pick Heston Kjerstad is being evaluated by doctors for a “medical condition.” While he didn’t go into detail, Elias noted that the expectation is for Kjerstad to be ready for spring training. The Orioles’ president of baseball operations declined to share further specifics on the situation.
At the very least, the news helps explain Heston Kjerstad’s absence from Triple-A Norfolk. After being sent down in June, he was placed on the 7-day IL on August 6 with what the team described as “fatigue,” last playing on July 25.
Kjerstad had shown flashes of potential with four homers in 39 games for Baltimore in 2024, and there was hope that a full-time role in 2025 would spark a breakout. Instead, he regressed, slashing just .192/.240/.327 with a 57 wRC+ across 167 plate appearances before being demoted — another disappointment in a season full of them for the Orioles.
Kjerstad’s career has already faced setbacks. Diagnosed with myocarditis in 2020 shortly after being drafted, the condition delayed his pro debut by two years. While speculation has linked this latest medical concern to his past heart issues, the Orioles have avoided confirming any connection.
For now, it seems the team will stay quiet on his status until spring training. With 2026 shaping up as a pivotal year for the 26-year-old — who is already being labeled a first-round bust by some — the hope is that he returns healthy and finally delivers on the promise that once made him one of Baltimore’s most anticipated prospects.