The Baltimore Orioles acquired Shane Baz earlier in the offseason. They may look to add one more starter before the 2026 campaign as well. As for pitcher Tyler Wells, his role has yet to be determined for the '26 season.

Wells has pitched at the MLB level since 2021, working in both relief and starting roles. The right-handed hurler has made 99 total big league appearances, 50 of which have been starts.

Wells suffered an injury in 2024 and did not return until the end of the 2025 season. He made four starts and pitched to a 2.91 ERA following his return. 

So, will he start in 2026?

"As of right now, you know, I would just say it's gonna continue to develop," Wells said of his potential 2026 role, via Orioles on MASN. "For me, it's just continuing to prepare to contribute to the team however I can."

Wells could realistically end up in a few different roles. He is more than capable of starting if necessary. The Orioles may prefer to implement him as a multi-inning reliever out of the bullpen. Or, Wells could completely make the transition to the bullpen and begin serving in later inning roles.

Wells is still listed as a starter on some depth charts, while others project that he will serve in a bullpen role. Baz, Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, Dean Kremer and Zach Eflin are among the other starting rotation candidates. 

If Baltimore does indeed bring in another starter -- such as Framber Valdez or Zac Gallen -- the chances of Wells landing in a relief role will increase. If the O's enter the season as currently constructed, Wells will have a realistic chance of starting or working out of the bullpen.

Baltimore may see how things go in spring training. If Wells displays the ability to pitch well over multiple innings, perhaps starting will become the preferred option for him. The team does not need to make a final decision the moment spring training begins.

It would benefit Wells if the team lets him know his role after a couple of weeks or so, though. That would give him time to prepare accordingly for the 2026 season.

Regardless of his role, Tyler Wells will be a valuable pitcher for Baltimore. The O's are surely thrilled to have a versatile hurler on their pitching staff. Wells should be able to help the ball club bounce back and make a competitive run this year.