outfielder Lady Taveras Mike Rodriguez reported that a deal has been reached with the Orioles, pending a physical. The team has not officially announced the move.
Seattle designated Taveras for assignment in mid-June. He cleared waivers and was sent directly to Triple-A Tacoma. The Mariners acquired him via waivers from Texas in early May. Taveras was elected as a free agent a few weeks ago.
Taveras spent the past five major league seasons with the Rangers. Debuted as a part-timer in 2020. Taveras didn’t provide much offense in his first three seasons, but provided strong center field defense and some base speed. The following year, he took on a more prominent role, appearing in 143 games. From 2020 to 2022, he totaled 660 at-bats, reaching 554 in 2023. Taveras hit 14 home runs and stole 14 bases while slashing .266/.312/.421.
A strong 2023 helped Taveras remain relevant in 2024, despite his decline as a hitter. He posted an 84 wRC+ in 529 games. Taveras did steal a career-high 23 bases, but hit just .229. It’s worth noting that given Taveras’ Super Two status, he is eligible for arbitration before the 2024 season. That year he earned $2.55. Taveras and the Rangers agreed to a deal worth $4.75MM in 2025, but luxury tax considerations sparked trade rumors. Texas ultimately retained him, but Taveras got stuck at the plate. He slashed .241/.259/.342 in 30 games with Texas before being cut. After joining the Mariners, he continued to struggle, hitting .174 in 98 games.
Baltimore will install the Flyers in Taveras as potential center depth. Tyler O’Neal Will return to the Orioles, possibly in some combination Colton Cowser, Dylan Beaversand Dylan Carlson In the outfield. While Taveras struggled last season in Statcast’s Fielding Run Value, the Orioles could still consider him a solid defensive replacement with their current options.
