Baltimore Orioles Sign Veteran Outfielder Leody Taveras
The Baltimore Orioles are strengthening their outfield by signing veteran outfielder Leody Taveras to a one-year, $2 million contract. This move was first reported by MLB insider Mike Rodriguez on Wednesday evening and confirmed by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
Leody Taveras Career Overview
Taveras, 27, spent most of his career with the Texas Rangers. Signed as an international free agent in 2015, he made his major league debut in 2020. Despite a tough 0-for-16 performance during the 2023 World Series, he was part of the Rangers team that won the championship that year.
Performance and Recent Moves
During the 2024 season, Taveras shared center field duties with Kevin Pillar for the Rangers, posting a slash line of .241/.259/.342 with one home run, eight RBIs, and six stolen bases over 30 games. On May 4, the Rangers placed him on outright waivers, and two days later he was claimed by the Seattle Mariners.
Impact with Seattle Mariners
Taveras made an immediate impact in his debut game for the Mariners on May 7 against the Athletics.
"In his first Mariners game, Taveras started in right field, drove in the tying run, and scored the go-ahead run in a 6-5 victory."
He played 28 games with Seattle, batting .174/.198 over that period.
Summary
The Orioles' signing of Taveras brings experienced depth to their outfield with a player who has contributed at the major league level and has World Series experience.
The Orioles are enhancing their roster by adding a versatile outfielder with championship experience to support their lineup.Would you like the summary to have a more formal or conversational tone?