Frederick Keys to return to Minor League Baseball as Orioles' High-A affiliate in 2026
The Orioles' High-A affiliate will relocate to Frederick, Md., starting with the 2026 season, marking the return of the Frederick Keys to affiliated baseball for the first time since 2020.
The Keys will play in the South Atlantic League, and their return to the Orioles' farm system continues a long-standing relationship with the Baltimore franchise.
“We are thrilled that affiliated baseball is returning to Frederick,” Orioles executive vice president and general manager Mike Elias said. “The Frederick community and fans have always been strong supporters of the Orioles, and we look forward to building on a 30-year partnership with the Keys.”
The move will also include the renovation of Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium, which is being done in partnership with the city of Frederick and the Maryland Stadium Authority, to ensure the stadium meets the requirements of MLB's Professional Development League and gives fans and players a quality experience during games. The upgrades will include new clubhouses, modern batting cages, new bullpens, an expanded concourse and more seating.
Frederick's baseball legacy dates back more than a century. The city was a founding member of the Blue Ridge League, which operated from 1915-30. The team had various names during that time — the Hustlers, Champs and Warriors -- and won championships in 1915 and 1921. In recent decades, the Keys were the Class-A-Advanced affiliate of the Orioles from 1989-2020.
As part of the Keys' return to High-A, the Aberdeen IronBirds -- the Orioles' current High-A team -- will move to the six-team MLB Draft League. The team will retain its city and identity.
“The return of affiliated baseball marks a historic milestone for the city of Frederick,” said Greg Baroni, founder and CEO of Attain Sports, which owns and manages four teams, including the Keys and the IronBirds. “We’re honored to support Frederick in realizing its vision of bringing back a Baltimore Orioles Minor League affiliate and we’re excited for what this next chapter will bring.”