The Orioles announced today that infielder has cleared waivers and been outrighted to Triple-A Norfolk, with him accepting the assignment. Despite having over three years of MLB service time—which gave him the option to reject the assignment and become a free agent—he’s chosen to stay with Baltimore. Additionally, the O’s officially confirmed their signing of right-handed pitcher Dylan Coleman, who had previously announced the deal on Instagram. It’s a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training.
Rivera, 28, signed a one-year, $1 million deal earlier this offseason to avoid arbitration. He was claimed off waivers from the Marlins in August and made an immediate impact with the Orioles, slashing an impressive .313/.370/.578 with four home runs in just 73 plate appearances down the stretch. However, that offensive surge stands out against his overall MLB track record, as he holds a career .244/.306/.369 line over 1,042 plate appearances. While he’s a reliable defender at third base, his plate discipline is below average, and his sprint speed ranks in the 33rd percentile, according to Statcast.
Now part of Baltimore’s non-roster invitees for spring training, Rivera will aim to earn his way back onto the 40-man roster. The Orioles’ infield is crowded with talent, including Jordan Westburg, Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday, Ryan Mountcastle, Ryan O’Hearn, Ramón Urías, and (once healthy) Jorge Mateo. Top prospect Coby Mayo is likely the first in line if a spot opens up at the corners due to injury. Nevertheless, Rivera provides valuable infield depth and will join fellow non-roster invitees Terrin Vavra, Vimael Machín, Luis Vázquez, and Liván Soto in competing for a role.