Orioles to Sign Outfielder Leody Taveras
Outfielder Leody Taveras is set to join the Baltimore Orioles on a one-year, $2 million contract, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, who credited Mike Rodriguez for first reporting the deal.
Career and Recent Performance
Taveras was designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners in mid-June, cleared waivers, and was sent outright to Triple-A Tacoma. The Mariners had acquired him through a waiver claim from the Texas Rangers earlier in May. A few weeks ago, Taveras elected free agency.
Taveras spent the past five MLB seasons with the Texas Rangers, making his debut in 2020 in a part-time role. While his early seasons showed limited offensive production, he contributed strong center field defense and speed on the bases. His playing time increased significantly in 2022, with 143 games played.
- From 2020 to 2022, he made 660 plate appearances.
- In 2023, he had 554 plate appearances, hitting 14 home runs and stealing 14 bases, with a batting line of .266/.312/.421.
The successful 2023 season earned him a prominent role in 2024. However, his offensive performance declined, with a .229 batting average and an 84 weighted runs created plus (wRC+) over 529 plate appearances. Taveras stole a career-high 23 bases in 2024.
Contract and Arbitration Details
Taveras qualified for arbitration ahead of the 2024 season due to his Super Two status. He and the Rangers agreed to a $4.75 million contract for 2025, but concerns about the luxury tax sparked trade speculation. Ultimately, Texas retained him despite his offensive struggles.
"He slashed .241/.259/"
Author's summary: Leody Taveras, a speedy and defensively skilled outfielder, is starting a new chapter with the Orioles after five years with the Rangers and a challenging recent season.