Baltimore Orioles execute roster adjustments prior to encounter with Seattle Mariners
The Baltimore Orioles are facing a challenging stretch with key players out due to injuries, as both Colton Cowser and Tyler O'Neill are currently sidelined. To add a fresh face to the team, the Orioles have activated Daniel Johnson, who was recently claimed off waivers from the San Francisco Giants.
Johnson, a 30-year-old veteran outfielder, spent the first half of the season with the Giants but has now returned to Baltimore after a brief stint with their Triple-A affiliate, Norfolk. In Norfolk, Johnson posted a solid .259/.320/.448 line with 21 home runs, 76 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases in 118 games.
Johnson's major league experience is limited, with a .193/.238/.336 slash line in 50 games and 126 plate appearances. However, his minor league performance since 2023 has been more promising, with a combined .267/.333/.469 slash line over 1,236 plate appearances and a 107 wRC+. He also demonstrated his speed with 54 stolen bases (caught 19 times) in that span.
Since rejoining the Orioles in August, Johnson made his Orioles debut starting in center field but went 0-for-2 initially. He had a highlight defensive play making a notable shoestring catch to end an inning against the Mariners on August 14. However, after four games with Baltimore, he was optioned back to Triple-A Norfolk on August 15, having gone 2-for-14 with a walk, one stolen base, and scored three runs. This roster move was to make space for Colton Cowser returning from injury.
The Orioles are currently on a two-game losing streak, having lost their last series to the Athletics, 2 games to 1. They are 9.5 games behind the last American League Wild Card spot, making every game crucial in their bid to make the playoffs. The Orioles could potentially play spoiler for a Mariners team trying to climb into the top spot in the AL West.
With Adams' exit and Johnson's arrival, there could be a shift in the energy around Baltimore's clubhouse. Johnson now has a chance to prove himself in the outfield for Baltimore manager Tony Mansolino and contribute to the team's efforts to make up the 9.5-game deficit.
Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners are on a roll, having won nine out of their last ten games, including a seven-game winning streak. Cal Raleigh, a player from the Mariners, has been delivering big performances, potentially making him a National League MVP candidate.
As the Orioles continue their quest for a playoff spot, the addition of Daniel Johnson could provide a much-needed boost to the team's outfield and overall morale.
- Despite the Baltimore Orioles' current challenges due to injuries, with Colton Cowser and Tyler O'Neill sidelined, the arrival of Daniel Johnson could offer a boost, as he brings strong minor league performance and promising potential.
- As the MLB season progresses, the Orioles, having lost key players to injuries, must look towards young talents like Daniel Johnson, who recently returned from a Triple-A stint, to help bridge the 9.5-game gap to the last American League Wild Card spot.
