Baltimore Orioles Sign Veteran Outfielder Leody Taveras
The Baltimore Orioles have strengthened their outfield by signing veteran outfielder Leody Taveras to a one-year contract worth $2 million. This move was first reported by MLB insider Mike Rodriguez on Wednesday evening, and later confirmed by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
Leody Taveras’ Career Background
Taveras, 27, began his professional career after being signed as an international free agent by the Texas Rangers in 2015. He made his major league debut in 2020 and was part of the Rangers team that won the 2023 World Series, although he went 0-for-16 in the Fall Classic.
Performance and Recent Seasons
In the 2024 season, Taveras split playing time in center field with Kevin Pillar, finishing with a .241 batting average, .259 on-base percentage, and .342 slugging percentage. He recorded one home run, eight RBIs, and six stolen bases over 30 games with the Rangers.
On May 4, the Rangers placed Taveras on outright waivers. He was subsequently claimed by the Seattle Mariners two days later.
Time with the Seattle Mariners
During his first game for the Mariners on May 7 against the Oakland Athletics, Taveras started in right field for the first time in his career. He contributed both by driving in the tying run and scoring the go-ahead run in a 6-5 victory. In total, he appeared in 28 games with Seattle, posting a batting line of .174/.198/.
"During his first game with the Mariners on May 7 against the Athletics, Taveras started his first career game in right field and also drove in the tying run as well as scoring the go-ahead run in a 6-5 victory."
This signing adds valuable depth to the Orioles’ outfield roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Author’s summary: The Orioles have bolstered their outfield by signing Leody Taveras, a versatile veteran with World Series experience, aiming to enhance their lineup depth for the new season.