Orioles to Sign Outfielder Leody Taveras to One-Year Deal
Outfielder [translate:Леоди Таверас] is set to join the Baltimore Orioles, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The initial report was made by Mike Rodriguez. Heyman, giving credit to Rodriguez, noted the contract is for one year and worth $2 million.
Taveras was designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners in mid-June. After clearing waivers, he was sent outright to their Triple-A team in Tacoma. The Mariners had acquired him through a waiver claim from the Texas Rangers earlier in May. A few weeks ago, Taveras chose free agency.
He spent his first five major league seasons with the Rangers, debuting in 2020 in a part-time capacity. Though he struggled offensively during his first three seasons, he was valued for his strong center field defense and speed on the bases. In the following year, his role expanded significantly, playing in 143 games.
Between 2020 and 2022, Taveras had 660 plate appearances, and in 2023 he logged 554, hitting 14 home runs and stealing 14 bases with a slash line of .266/.312/.421. This strong performance allowed him to maintain an important role in 2024, although his hitting declined, finishing with an 84 wRC+ over 529 plate appearances. He stole a career-high 23 bases but only hit .229.
Due to his Super Two status, Taveras qualified for arbitration before the 2024 season. He and the Rangers agreed to a $4.75 million deal for 2025. However, concerns over luxury tax implications sparked trade rumors. Texas eventually retained him, but his offensive struggles continued, as reflected in a .241/.259/ slash line.
"The strong 2023 helped Taveras maintain a large role in 2024, though he fell off as a hitter."
Author's summary: Leody Taveras, a speedy outfielder with strong defense, is signing a one-year deal with the Orioles after mixed offensive performances and a recent free agency decision.