Mariners Might Regret Midseason Roster Move If Orioles' $2M Gamble Pays Off

The Seattle Mariners briefly had a World Series champion in their outfield this season, though many fans might not even recall it. On May 6, the Mariners claimed center fielder Leody Taveras off waivers from the Texas Rangers.

Taveras stayed on the active roster for just over a month before being designated for assignment. After clearing waivers, he was sent outright to Triple-A Tacoma, spending the rest of his age-26 season in the minors. This marked a swift fall for a player who had started in center field for the World Series champions only two years prior.

Fresh Start with the Orioles

Now, Taveras has found an opportunity to revive his career. According to broadcaster and journalist Mike Rodriguez:

“The Baltimore Orioles signed Taveras to a one-year, $2 million major league contract on Wednesday.”

As of Thursday morning, the Orioles had not yet formally announced the move.

Performance Decline in Seattle

During his brief time with the Mariners, Taveras posted a .174 batting average along with a .198 on-base percentage and a .272 slugging percentage across 28 games. His OPS for the season stood at .530, declining from .641 the previous year and .733 during his full 2023 season as the Rangers’ regular center fielder.

Author’s Summary

Leody Taveras, once a World Series starter, struggled with the Mariners but now aims for redemption after signing a $2 million deal with the Orioles.

Sports Illustrated — 2025-11-06