Frederick Keys Planned High-A Orioles Affiliate Return 2026

The Frederick Keys minor league baseball team will once again be affiliated with the Baltimore Orioles starting in the 2026 season, marking a return of affiliated baseball to Frederick after a hiatus since 2020. The Orioles’ High-A affiliate, currently the Aberdeen IronBirds, will relocate to Frederick and play at a renovated Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium, while the existing collegiate-level Draft League team in Frederick will move to Aberdeen, becoming the new IronBirds. The renovations at Nymeo Field include upgraded clubhouses, batting cages, bullpens, expanded concourses, and additional fan seating, supported by a partnership between the City of Frederick, the Maryland Stadium Authority, and Attain Sports, the owning company of both teams. This move restores a historic 30-year partnership between the Frederick Keys and the Baltimore Orioles, with Orioles GM Mike Elias praising the community's strong support for the team. Local leaders and fans have celebrated the announcement as a significant milestone, highlighting Frederick’s identity as a baseball town and the importance of community and leadership in making the return possible. Attain Sports has secured a lease for the Frederick team through at least 2032, while the future of the Aberdeen club beyond 2026 remains uncertain.