Baltimore Orioles

Quick Facts

  • Founded: 1901

  • Original Name/City: Milwaukee Brewers (1901)

  • Current Ballpark: Oriole Park at Camden Yards

  • World Series Titles: 3 (1966, 1970, 1983)

  • Franchise Nicknames: The O’s, The Birds

A History of the Baltimore Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles franchise has one of the more winding histories in Major League Baseball. Founded in 1901 as the Milwaukee Brewers (no relation to the modern team), the franchise quickly moved to St. Louis, where it played as the Browns for over five decades.

Despite a few bright spots, the Browns struggled a lot. They eventually relocated to Baltimore in 1954, reviving the historic "Orioles" name from Baltimore’s rich baseball tradition.

The Orioles found their footing in the 1960s and quickly emerged as one of baseball’s elite teams. Their first World Series title came in 1966, when they won against the heavily favored Los Angeles Dodgers, using dominant pitching and the arrival of Hall of Fame manager Earl Weaver.

The team reached its peak in the 1970s, boasting a legendary infield, stellar pitching, and a balanced, disciplined approach. Led by stars like Brooks Robinson, Frank Robinson, and Jim Palmer, the Orioles won the 1970 World Series and consistently contended for championships.

A third World Series win came in 1983, thanks to a veteran squad led by future Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr., who would go on to become the face of the franchise. Ripken famously broke Lou Gehrig’s record for consecutive games played, embodying the Orioles’ blue-collar ethos and earning the nickname “The Iron Man.”

After a long period of decline, the Orioles returned to playoff contention in the 2010s behind sluggers like Adam Jones, Manny Machado, and Chris Davis. The current era has seen another resurgence, with a new generation of stars, including Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson, propelling the team back to relevance.

With a rich history, iconic players, and a picturesque ballpark, the Orioles remain one of the most respected teams in the American League.

Franchise Timeline

  • 1901: Founded as the Milwaukee Brewers.

  • 1902: Moved to St. Louis and renamed the St. Louis Browns.

  • 1954: Relocated to Baltimore, becoming the Baltimore Orioles.

  • 1966: Won first World Series title.

  • 1970: Captured their second championship.

  • 1983: Won third World Series title, led by Cal Ripken Jr.

  • 1992: Moved into Oriole Park at Camden Yards, setting a new standard for ballpark design.

  • 1995: Ripken breaks Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played record.

  • 2014: Reached the ALCS under manager Buck Showalter.

  • 2023–Present: Emergence of a new core with Rutschman, Henderson, and a top-ranked farm system.

Legendary Players

Cal Ripken Jr. (1981–2001)

  • The most iconic Oriole of all time, Ripken redefined durability and professionalism. A 19-time All-Star and two-time MVP, he played in 2,632 consecutive games and helped lead the team to the 1983 World Series title. He’s considered one of the best shortstops in MLB history.

Brooks Robinson (1955–1977)

  • Known as “The Human Vacuum Cleaner,” Robinson set the standard for defensive excellence at third base. He won 16 Gold Gloves and was a cornerstone of the Orioles’ championship teams, including a World Series MVP performance in 1970.

Frank Robinson (1966–1971)

  • Acquired in a blockbuster trade, Frank Robinson made an immediate impact by winning the Triple Crown and leading the Orioles to their first World Series win in 1966. A Hall of Famer and fierce competitor, he brought a winning mentality to Baltimore.

Jim Palmer (1965–1984)

  • The ace of the Orioles' dominant pitching staff during their golden era, Palmer won three Cy Young Awards and pitched in six World Series. He remains the only pitcher in history to win a World Series game in three different decades.

Eddie Murray (1977–1988, 1996)

  • One of the most consistent hitters of his era, Murray was a switch-hitting slugger who combined power with patience. He ranks among the all-time leaders in home runs and RBIs and was a key part of the 1983 championship team.