Orioles Claim Former Top Prospect For 2nd Time This Offseason

The Baltimore Orioles have claimed right-handed pitcher Roansy Contreras off waivers from the New York Yankees, marking the second time this offseason they have acquired him. 

Contreras, 25, has been on a whirlwind journey this winter, bouncing between the Los Angeles Angels, Texas Rangers, Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, and Orioles in a series of waiver claims. 

With no minor league options left, he must make Baltimore’s Opening Day roster or be exposed to waivers again. The Orioles initially claimed him from Cincinnati on January 10 but lost him to the Yankees less than two weeks later. 

Now back in Baltimore’s hands, the team sees enough potential in his arm to give him another shot. "We like his stuff and believe he can be an asset in our pitching mix," an Orioles official said.

Earlier today, RHP Roansy Contreras was claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Orioles.

Additionally, the Yankees have outrighted RHP Allan Winans off the Major League roster and onto the roster of Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Winans has been invited to 2025 Major League…

— New York Yankees (@Yankees) February 7, 2025

Contreras showed promise as a starter with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2022, posting a 3.79 ERA over 95 innings, but he struggled in 2023, finishing with a 6.59 ERA and shifting to the bullpen. 

Last season, he rebounded with a 4.35 ERA in 49 appearances between Pittsburgh and the Angels, though his strikeout (18.8%) and walk (10.4%) rates were below league average. 

Baltimore’s decision to reclaim him suggests they see value in his versatility. If he sticks with the team, he could provide bullpen depth or work as a spot starter. 

I was so in on Roansy Contreras years ago. I hope he finds a home and doesn’t have to continue to pack up his suitcase. https://t.co/O0VkaILizD

— Dave L Funnell (@sportz_nutt51) February 7, 2025

To make room for Contreras, the Orioles designated outfielder Daz Cameron for assignment. 

Cameron, 28, was acquired from Oakland in October but was likely squeezed out after the team added Tyler O’Neill, Ramón Laureano, and Dylan Carlson to the outfield mix. 

In 430 major league plate appearances, he has slashed .201/.263/.330 with 14 stolen bases while providing solid defense. The Orioles now have seven days to trade him or attempt to pass him through waivers.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images