Despite a disappointing season, the Baltimore Orioles continue to make key roster decisions.
This wasn’t supposed to be a rebuilding year—the team entered the season with hopes of competing for the AL East crown. While they’ve improved after a rough 16-34 start, there’s still plenty to evaluate before next spring.
By trading away several veterans at the July deadline, the Orioles created opportunities to assess players who weren’t initially expected to be major contributors, but could still earn bench or utility roles if they impressed.
Unfortunately for infielder Emmanuel Rivera, he wasn’t one of those success stories.
On Tuesday, the Orioles designated Rivera for assignment to make room for infielder Jordan Westburg, who returned from the injured list.
Additionally, left-handed pitcher José Castillo was activated after being claimed off waivers from the Mariners, while fellow lefty Grant Wolfram was sent down to Triple-A Norfolk.
Rivera, who was claimed off waivers from the Marlins last August, has now been DFA’d by Baltimore three times. On previous occasions, he cleared waivers and accepted a Triple-A assignment. It’s unclear if that will happen again.
In 42 games this season, Rivera hit .250 with a .291 on-base percentage and a .283 slugging percentage, failing to hit a home run. Although he once showed potential with the Diamondbacks and even made their 2023 World Series roster, his career has largely trended downward since.
A 19th-round pick by the Royals, Rivera has seen time in the majors over five seasons with four different teams. Whether he gets another shot in the big leagues remains to be seen.
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