Orioles To Sign Leody Taveras
The Baltimore Orioles are set to sign free agent outfielder Leody Taveras. According to reporter Mike Rodriguez, the agreement is pending a physical, and the club has not yet made an official announcement.
Seattle designated Taveras for assignment in mid-June. After clearing waivers, he was sent to Triple-A Tacoma. The Mariners had previously picked him up from the Texas Rangers via a waiver claim in early May. He later chose free agency.
Taveras spent the past five major league seasons with the Rangers, debuting in 2020 as a part-time player. While he struggled offensively in his first three campaigns, he contributed with solid defense in center field and speed on the bases.
He took on a larger role in 2023, appearing in 143 games and recording 554 plate appearances. That season, he hit 14 home runs, stole 14 bases, and posted a batting line of .266/.312/.421.
Despite maintaining a full-time role in 2024, his offensive numbers declined, producing an 84 wRC+ across 529 plate appearances. He did, however, set a career high with 23 stolen bases despite hitting just .229.
Taveras qualified for salary arbitration before the 2024 season due to his Super Two status. He and the Rangers agreed to a $4.75 million deal for 2025, but trade rumors surfaced because of luxury tax concerns. Ultimately, Texas kept him, though his batting performance dipped again, finishing at .241/.259/.
“Outfielder Leody Taveras has an agreement with the Orioles pending a physical,” reported Mike Rodriguez.
Author’s Summary:
Leody Taveras, known for his defense and speed, is set to join the Orioles after mixed seasons with Texas and Seattle, aiming to regain his form in Baltimore.