In the wake of signing first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract, the Baltimore Orioles announced that catcher Maverick Handley has been designated for assignment.
Adley Rutschman and Samuel Basallo are now the only two catchers on the Orioles' roster.
Early-season injuries to Rutschman and Gary Sanchez helped Handley receive his first taste of Major League experience in 2025, hitting 0.73/.133/.073 in 47 plate appearances in 16 games. He struck out at a 38.3% clip.
Handley's DFA was the corresponding move to Alonso's new deal with the Orioles, which became official on Thursday afternoon, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
The O's options behind the plate
Following a down year offensively and one that included multiple oblique injuries, Rutschman should still be the leading candidate to be the Orioles' everyday catcher.
Baltimore signed Basallo to an eight-year, $67 million extension, but he could also see time at first base and designated hitter this upcoming season.
Handley could return to the Orioles and or their minor league system if the AL East club cannot find a trade partner or he clears waivers within the next seven days. There's no downside to having depth at the position, but Handley's offensive track record is underwhelming.
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