What's Happening?
The Baltimore Orioles have designated outfielder Will Robertson for assignment, a move announced on Sunday. Robertson, who was picked up off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates earlier in December, did not last long with the Orioles. During the 2025 season, Robertson played for both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Chicago White Sox, making 27 appearances and achieving a batting average of .129/.173/.143 with nine RBIs and 27 strikeouts in 75 plate appearances. His time was primarily spent in Triple-A, where he hit 20 home runs and 21 doubles across 89 games. The Orioles made this decision to clear space on their 40-man roster for starting pitcher Zach Eflin, who rejoined the team on a one-year contract after making 14 starts in the previous season.
Why It's Important?
This roster change highlights the Orioles' strategic adjustments as they prepare for the upcoming season. By designating Robertson for assignment, the Orioles are prioritizing their pitching staff, specifically making room for Zach Eflin, a pitcher with a proven track record. This move could impact Robertson's career trajectory, as he must now clear waivers and potentially accept a position in Triple-A Norfolk if he remains with the organization. For the Orioles, this decision underscores their focus on strengthening their pitching lineup, which could be crucial for their performance in the competitive American League East division.
What's Next?
Will Robertson's immediate future in professional baseball is uncertain. He will need to clear waivers before potentially being reassigned to Triple-A Norfolk, should he choose to stay with the Orioles. Meanwhile, the Orioles will integrate Zach Eflin back into their pitching rotation, hoping his experience will bolster their chances in the upcoming season. The team's management will likely continue to evaluate their roster to ensure they have the best possible lineup for the 2026 season.
