Orioles Trade Reliever Domínguez to Blue Jays

Baltimore Continues Bullpen Shake-Up Ahead of Deadline

The Baltimore Orioles have continued their bullpen reshuffling, trading right-handed pitcher Seranthony Domínguez to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for pitching prospect Juaron Watts-Brown. The move comes mid-way through a doubleheader against the same Blue Jays squad.

Key Roster Moves

This marks the third reliever Mike Elias has moved before the trade deadline, following earlier deals involving Bryan Baker and Gregory Soto. Domínguez, who arrived in Baltimore last year, has been a valuable asset in high-leverage situations this season, posting a 3.24 ERA over 41 2/3 innings. He is in the final year of his contract.

Blue Jays Acquire Experienced Arm

The Blue Jays are acquiring a pitcher with significant MLB experience in Domínguez. He was a key figure in stabilizing Baltimore’s bullpen last season after Craig Kimbrel‘s struggles. Domínguez had re-established himself as a reliable setup man this year, overcoming an earlier rough patch.

Orioles Bring Up New Talent

In return, the Orioles receive Juaron Watts-Brown, a 23-year-old starter ranked 14th among Toronto’s prospects by Baseball America. The 2023 third-round draft pick out of Oklahoma State features a mid-90s fastball and an effective slider, his primary swing-and-miss offering. He currently holds a 3.48 ERA in Double-A and is projected to be an MLB starter.

Bullpen Reinforcements Arrive

As part of the bullpen adjustments, Baltimore has recalled right-handers Elvin Rodríguez and Houston Roth. Both pitchers have seen time at Triple-A Norfolk this season. Right-hander Yaramil Hiraldo was optioned after pitching in the first game of the twin bill.

Orioles Eyeing Future Competition

This trade signals that Mike Elias may be preparing for a larger sell-off as the Orioles look to compete in 2026. While Elias is unlikely to part with players under team control, several veteran pitchers and players like outfielder Cedric Mullins and first baseman Ryan O’Hearn face uncertain futures with the club as their contracts near expiry. O’Hearn, for instance, has hit 12 home runs this season and has shown considerable offensive upside.

Pitcher Reflects on Trade Deadline Possibilities

Veteran pitcher Charlie Morton, who has seen a resurgence this season after a slow start, acknowledged the looming trade deadline. Mike [Elias] is going to have some choices to make,” Morton stated. It’s a moment in time, you know it’s there. You know it exists. But you don’t know how it will play out, and as it gets closer, you’re kind of closer to that reckoning moment where something will happen. Morton’s own future with the team is unclear, with his contract expiring.

The Orioles’ strategy reflects a broader MLB trend where teams are increasingly looking to acquire young, controllable talent for their future aspirations. As of July 2024, MLB teams have already executed over 300 trades this season, highlighting an active trade market (MLB.com).