Orioles to Sign Outfielder Leody Taveras to One-Year Deal
Outfielder Leody Taveras is set to join the Baltimore Orioles, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, who credited Mike Rodriguez for the initial report. The contract is a one-year deal worth $2 million.
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 claimed him off waivers from the Texas Rangers in early May. A few weeks ago, Taveras elected free agency.
Career Overview
Taveras spent his first five Major League seasons with the Rangers, debuting in 2020 in a part-time capacity. Though his batting was modest initially, he was known for strong center field defense and speed on the bases.
In 2022, he took on a bigger role with 143 games played and a total of 660 plate appearances over 2020-2022. In 2023, he recorded 554 plate appearances, 14 home runs, 14 stolen bases, and a slash line of .266/.312/.421.
Recent Performance and Contract Details
Taveras continued to have a prominent role in 2024, though his hitting declined, posting an 84 wRC+ across 529 plate appearances. He achieved a career-high 23 stolen bases but hit only .229. His Super Two status qualified him for arbitration before the 2024 season.
The Rangers agreed to a $4.75 million contract for 2025, but concerns about the luxury tax led to trade rumors. Texas ultimately retained him, but he struggled offensively, finishing with a slash of .241/.259/.
Jon Heyman: "It’s a one-year, $2M deal."
Author's summary: Leody Taveras will sign a one-year deal with the Orioles after a mixed performance in recent seasons, bringing defensive skill and speed to Baltimore's outfield.
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