Baltimore Orioles A significant roster change was made on Tuesday, with outfielder Eloy Jimenez being optioned to Triple-A Norfolk while infielder Ryan Mountcastle was reinstated from the 10-day injured list. According to MLB insider Robert MurrayThe adjustment comes as the Orioles look to strengthen their team heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
Mountcastle, Out of the field since late August due to a sprain in his left wristis set to rejoin the Orioles’ lineup. Prior to his injury, the 26-year-old first baseman posted 13 home runs, 61 RBIs and a .730 OPS while batting .452 this season. His return adds crucial depth to Baltimore’s infield as they continue their playoff push.
On the other hand, Jimenez, who was acquired from Chicago White Sox at the trade deadlineStruggling to find consistency with his new team, the 27-year-old outfielder hit just .232/.270/.316 in 33 games with the Orioles, contributing one home run, five doubles and seven RBIs in 100 plate appearances.
Orioles add Eloy Jimenez to Triple-A Norfolk ahead of postseason push
The decision to select Jimenez is disappointing because his acquisition at the deadline was seen as a move to bolster Baltimore’s outfield. Jimenez had shown glimpses of his potential in Chicago, where he signed a six-year extension that included a contract. $16.5 million club option for 2025 and an $18.5 million option for 2026. However, his performance with the Orioles did not live up to expectations, which led to him being demoted to Triple-A.
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Despite having the right to decline the option due to his service time in the Major Leagues, Jimenez accepted the decision of the Baltimore Orioles. The move shows that Jimenez is committed to improving his form and getting back on the Major League roster.
Baltimore, which is currently the frontrunner in the playoff race, will hope Mountcastle’s return will boost their lineup, while Jimenez will work on refining his approach at the plate in Norfolk. The Orioles are preparing themselves for a postseason run, and roster changes like this reflect the need to improve the team for October.