As the Baltimore Orioles prepare for the 2025 season under manager Brandon Hyde, several notable players from the previous roster will not be returning. Here are five key departures:
Anthony Santander (Outfielder): Santander, a consistent offensive contributor, entered free agency after the 2024 season. His market attracted interest from multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Angels, Toronto Blue Jays, and Detroit Tigers. Ultimately, Santander signed with the Blue Jays, joining a division rival and leaving a significant gap in the Orioles’ outfield and lineup.
Austin Hays (Outfielder): Hays, known for his defensive prowess and clutch hitting, also departed via free agency. He secured a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Reds on January 30, 2025. His exit, along with Santander’s, necessitated the Orioles’ acquisition of new outfield talent to fill the void.
Luis Vázquez (Infielder): Vázquez was designated for assignment on February 4, 2025, to make room on the roster for new acquisitions. Primarily serving as infield depth during his tenure with the Orioles, his departure indicates a shift in the team’s infield strategy, possibly relying more on emerging prospects or new signings.
Daz Cameron (Outfielder): Cameron was designated for assignment on February 7, 2025. While he provided additional depth in the outfield, the Orioles’ recent signings and roster adjustments led to his removal from the 40-man roster. This move reflects the team’s commitment to restructuring its outfield with new talent.
Charlie Morton (Pitcher): Veteran pitcher Charlie Morton, who joined the Orioles on a one-year, $15 million deal during the 2024-2025 offseason, announced his retirement at the end of the 2024 season. Morton’s experience and leadership were invaluable to the Orioles’ pitching staff, and his departure leaves a void in both the rotation and clubhouse.
In response to these departures, the Orioles have been active in the offseason, signing outfielders Ramón Laureano and Tyler O’Neill to bolster their lineup and defense. These strategic moves aim to address the gaps left by exiting players and position the team for a competitive 2025 season.
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