Orioles Secure Future Core, Non-Tender Suárez, Bautista Signs Deal
BALTIMORE, MD – The Baltimore Orioles proactively extended contracts to nine players, including Ryan Mountcastle and jorge Mateo, avoiding arbitration for the 2026 season, the team announced today. Together, the club designated veteran infielder Adam suárez for assignment, and pitcher Félix bautista agreed to a new contract following recent surgeries.
These moves signal the Orioles’ commitment to retaining key pieces of their competitive roster while making arduous decisions regarding players who didn’t fit within their long-term plans. Securing these contracts provides financial certainty for both the team and the players, allowing them to focus on performance without the distraction of arbitration negotiations. The non-tender of Suárez opens a roster spot and perhaps frees up funds for future acquisitions, while Bautista’s contract solidifies his place within the association as he recovers from notable arm injuries.
Along with Mountcastle and Mateo, contracts were offered to all other players on the 40-man roster not yet eligible for arbitration. Bautista, recovering from Tommy John surgery in October 2023, underwent rotator cuff and labrum surgery in August. Orioles General manager Mike Elias expressed optimism about the right-hander’s recovery. “I’m glad we got that done,” Elias stated. “My expectations for him are to have a great rehab and get healthy, and if we’re able to have him pitching in the latter part of the season, all the better.So far, so good with his rehab, but it’s early. We just want to keep supporting him and keep getting him back to health. We love the guy, and he’s a huge part of our organization, so I’m very happy that we solidified that deal and got that business out of the way.”
Elsewhere, outfielder Pedro Léon was claimed off waivers by the Philadelphia Phillies after being designated for assignment by the Orioles on Tuesday. Former Orioles outfielder Brady Anderson has joined the Los Angeles angels as their hitting coach, with John Mabry, a recent special advisor to the Orioles, serving as the Angels’ assistant hitting coach.
