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Baltimore Orioles Opening Day Roster: What We Know

By Arrick Joel

Mar 20, 2021; Sarasota, Florida, USA; Baltimore Orioles celebrate after beating the New York Yankees 2-1 during spring training at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 20, 2021; Sarasota, Florida, USA; Baltimore Orioles celebrate after beating the New York Yankees 2-1 during spring training at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Orioles’ bullpen took a hit early this Spring, as closer-hopeful Hunter Harvey suffered an oblique strain that landed him on the 60-day injured list. Harvey threw just a single pitch in his third outing of the Spring before being removed from the game.

Related Story. Orioles Reliever Hunter Harvey Leaves Game with Injury. light

Manager Brandon Hyde has not named a closer. So, much like the rest of the league, the Orioles’ closer role is undecided. According to projections from RosterResource, the three pitchers in-play for saves opportunites this season are Cesar Valdez, Tanner Scott, and Dillon Tate.

Last season, Cesar Valdez became somewhat of a fan favorite while posting very promising numbers out of the bullpen. In 14.1 innings of work, Valdez racked up 12 strikeouts with an ERA of 1.26. Although the roster may be youth-skewed, the 36-year-old Valdez will be a welcomed veteran in the Orioles’ bullpen this season.

As for the non-closer bullpen situation, the Orioles added Wade LeBlanc and Adam Plutko as long-relief options. These two could also move into the starting rotation should any injuries arise throughout the season.

Wade LeBlanc joined the team this offseason as a non-roster invitee and posted a strong 2.79 ERA in 4 appearances this Spring. Due to their 40-man roster crunch, the Orioles granted LeBlanc free agency before bringing him back a day later on a Major League deal worth $700K.

In a trade this past Saturday, the Orioles acquired Adam Plutko for cash considerations, designating second baseman Yolmer Sanchez for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster. Although his skillset is limited pitching-wise, Plutko is often revered for his leadership ability in the clubhouse. Adding a player like Plutko who has versatility in working out of different pitcher roles as well as the leadership aspect makes him a good veteran presence on a rebuilding team like the Orioles.

Dan Connolly of The Athletic, among others, reported on Twitter on Monday that both of the Orioles’ Rule 5 Draft selections, Mac Sceroler and Tyler Wells, would also be part of the big league bullpen this season.

Who’s In?

  • Cesar Valdez (RHP)
  • Tanner Scott (LHP)
  • Dillon Tate (RHP)
  • Adam Plutko (RHP)
  • Paul Fry (LHP)
  • Shawn Armstrong (RHP)
  • Wade LeBlanc (LHP)
  • Tyler Wells (RHP)
  • Mac Sceroler (RHP)

Who’s Out?

  • Hunter Harvey (60-day IL, oblique strain)
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