Why Tyler Wells is the Secret Weapon for the 2026 Orioles Staff | Vinny & Haynie

Why Tyler Wells is the Secret Weapon for the 2026 Orioles Staff | Vinny & Haynie

Is Tyler Wells the most underrated arm in the American League? As we head into Spring Training 2026, the Baltimore Orioles have a “good problem”: too many starters and not enough spots.

In this segment, Bob & Nolan on 105.7 The Fan break down why Tyler Wells is the ultimate “X-Factor” for this pitching staff. After a dominant September return in 2025—where he posted a 2.91 ERA following his recovery from elbow surgery—Wells is healthy, rejuvenated, and recently signed to a new $2.45M deal to avoid arbitration.

The big debate:
00:00:00 History Lesson: Bob recaps the last few years for Tyler Wells including his great start to 2023 and how it went off the rails, his Injury that cost him most of 2024 and 2025, and his triumphant return at the end of last year.
00:01:23 The “Reliever” Pivot: We discuss the tempting possibility of moving Wells to the bullpen. Would his mid-90s fastball and elite command turn him into a late-inning weapon alongside Ryan Helsley?
00:02:40 Bound to Be: Nolan lays out the case why Wells should be a reliever (Inning Count & Roster Fit).
00:04:14 One More Please: Why Mike Elias still has some work to do to add another starter and Wells’ limitations in that role.

Whether he’s starting every fifth day or closing out games in the 8th, a healthy Tyler Wells changes the ceiling for the 2026 Orioles.

💬 WHAT DO YOU THINK? Should Tyler Wells be in the rotation or the bullpen? Let us know your Opening Day staff predictions in the comments!