Mariners Might Regret Midseason Roster Move
The Seattle Mariners had a World Series champion in their outfield this season, though many fans might not recall it. On May 6, they claimed center fielder Leody Taveras off waivers from the Texas Rangers.
Taveras spent just over a month on the Mariners' active roster before being designated for assignment. After clearing waivers, he was outrighted to Triple-A Tacoma, spending the second half of his age-26 season in the minors. This came just two years after he started in center field for the World Series champions.
New Opportunity with the Orioles
Leody Taveras has now found a fresh start. Broadcaster and journalist Mike Rodriguez reported that the Baltimore Orioles signed Taveras to a one-year, $2 million major league contract on Wednesday. As of Thursday morning, the Orioles had not officially announced the deal.
Performance Overview
During his stint with the Mariners, Taveras struggled at the plate. He posted a slash line of .174/.198/.272 over 28 games, finishing the season with an OPS of .530 across 58 games. This decline follows an OPS of .641 the previous year and .733 during his full season as the Rangers' starting center fielder in 2023.
"The Seattle Mariners had a World Series champion in their outfield this season, and fans of the team might not even remember it."
Despite challenges, Taveras's signing by the Orioles represents a significant gamble on a player with past championship experience.
Author’s summary: Leody Taveras, once a World Series starting center fielder, faces a new chance with the Orioles after a tough stretch with the Mariners highlighted by a midseason demotion to the minors.