Baltimore Orioles Claim IF Jose Rondon From Chicago

The Baltimore Orioles made a waiver claim on Tuesday afternoon, but not for a pitcher.

When the Baltimore Orioles return to Baltimore tonight, they will be joined by the newest player to join the organization, utility man Jose Rondon. Per an official team release, the Orioles have claimed Jose Rondon off waivers from the Chicago White Sox. Rondon was designated for assignment by Chicago back on July 28th to make room for the return of highly-touted outfielder Eloy Jimenez from the Injured List.

I assumed the Orioles would be active on the waiver wire this week, but figured the target would be a pitcher (or two) as injuries pile up, potential trades are made, and bullpen arms struggle their way off the roster. That could still be the case, but for now, Rondon it is.

With Hanser Alberto, Jonathan Villar, Richie Martin, Jace Peterson, and Stevie Wilkerson already on the roster, claiming Rondon likely means that trade talks are serious involving one of these players. While Alberto’s name has been tossed around lately, if someone is going to move, it’s likely Villar.

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Rondon could also be the replacement for outfielder Dwight Smith Jr. who left Monday night’s game due to injury and was placed on the Injured List today. RHP Chandler Shepherd took the open spot on the 25-man roster, for now, but 8.39 ERA, 2.00 WHIP, and .342 average against this season in Triple-A aren’t promising. If you haven’t watched a Norfolk Tides game this season, let me provide some detailed analysis of what you have been missing – he’s bad. Grade A analysis for your Tuesday afternoon!

This move only brings about more questions, questions which are sure to be answered in over the course of the next 24 hours. In the meantime, welcome to Birdland, Jose Rondon.

Rondon, 25,  was originally signed by the Los Angeles Angels as an international free agent back in 2011. He was traded to San Diego in 2014 where made his MLB debut and appeared in eight games, going 3-25 (.120 average). He returned to the majors in 2018 and has been with the White Sox since. In 55 games this season, Rondon is slashing .197/.265/.282 with three home runs and nine runs driven in. We have already seen how much Mike Elias loves his versatile ballplayers. Rondon is another one to add to the list, playing at first, second, shortstop, third base, and left field this year with the White Sox.

The Baltimore Orioles will take the field at 3:40 pm EST to complete their two-game set against the San Diego Padres before returning to Camden Yards for an off-day on Wednesday and ten-straight home games to follow.