Orioles Sign 5-Year Veteran Pitcher With Career 3.18 ERA
Anderson, 34, boasts a solid track record with a career 3.18 ERA over five major league seasons, including stints with the Tampa Bay Rays, Miami Marlins, Atlanta Braves, and Kansas City Royals.
After opting out of a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Anderson joined the Orioles, who have long been interested in him, dating back to his impactful postseason performances with the Rays in 2019 and 2020.
Orioles Sign Nick Anderson to Minor League Deal https://t.co/BT7irOoNbC pic.twitter.com/45H520gOSx
— Maryland Sports Blog (@MDSportsblog) August 28, 2024
His mid-to-upper 90s velocity and strong pitching metrics make him a nice addition for a team looking to address recent bullpen struggles.
The timing of Anderson's signing is crucial for the Orioles, whose bullpen has faltered since the All-Star break, posting a 4.85 ERA.
With key relievers like Craig Kimbrel and Gregory Soto facing challenges and others sidelined with injuries, Anderson's experience and potential stability could be be very impactful.
If Nick Anderson is back sitting at 95/96, the O's could have a STEAL here. Anderson's average FB velos by year (and ERA):
— Baltimore Sports Fan (@88OriolesFan88) August 28, 2024
2019: 96 MPH (3.32 ERA)
2020: 95.2 MPH (0.55 ERA)
2021: 93 MPH (4.50 ERA in 6 IP)
2023: 94.2 MPH (3.06 ERA)
2024: 94.8 MPH (4.04 ERA)
Low risk signing with… https://t.co/4mWZ6kVplP
He is expected to report to Triple-A Norfolk initially, but with rosters expanding on September 1 and starter Zach Eflin set to return from the injured list, Anderson could quickly find himself on the major league roster.
His postseason experience, including appearances in the 2020 World Series, could be invaluable as Baltimore looks to solidify their bullpen for a deep playoff push.
Photo Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports
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