Despite winning 101 games this season, the Baltimore Orioles were swept in the American League Divisional Series by the Texas Rangers. Amid the disappointment of an early playoff exit, however, several players spoke out about their Christian faith and the bonds they’ve formed as believers.
Baltimore sports anchor Mark Viviano recently gained insight into the spiritual lives of some Orioles and shared their quotes on air at WJZ News. Based on the MLB players’ comments, faith unites them during the ups and downs of pro sports while motivating them to shine Christ’s light in the community.
Baltimore Orioles Share ‘Brotherhood of Faith’
Viviano’s story about Christians on the team was sparked by an unusual incident he witnessed. Before a game, Tyler Wells knelt to write something with his finger in the pitching-mound dirt. When Viviano asked about it, the pitcher indicated it was a tribute to a sick relative.
During their subsequent conversation, “Wells went on to talk about faith, fellowship & Bible study shared by a sizable group of @Orioles players & their families,” Viviano shared on social media. “It was clear that their brotherhood in faith furthered their bond as teammates.”
Wells named several Orioles teammates who’ve been a “big influence” on his faith. “You have guys who aren’t afraid to talk about it,” he told the sports reporter.
The Orioles’ youngest player, 22-year-old Gunnar Henderson, described weekly Bible studies and chapel services, saying, “It’s really cool to spend time and be in fellowship with those guys.” The shortstop said it was especially meaningful to have people to “lean on” and to share the “love of Christ” with during his rookie season.
Pitcher Danny Coulombe confirmed that a lot of Orioles “prioritize” their faith in Christ. “For me, and most [of] the guys, it is the most important thing in our life, even more than baseball,” he said. “We’re Christians first, and then we’re baseball players second.”
Coulombe, who was traded to Baltimore in March, uses his platform to talk about his faith while raising awareness about autism. He and wife Lauren have a 4-year-old son, Theo, who is neurodivergent, and they say they love him exactly how God made him.
