Orioles supplement bullpen, claim veteran right-hander from Twins

While the Orioles enjoyed a day off in-between their series split with the Jays and three-game series with Cleveland, Mike Elias and the front office did not. On Monday, the Orioles claimed right-hander Scott Blewett off waivers from the Twins, and are expected to add Blewett to the pen ahead of Tuesday's opener with the Guardians. Blewett replaces left-hander Luis Gonzalez, who was designated for assignment Monday.

Blewett, 29, started his career with the Kansas City Royals before joining the Royals' AL Central foe, the Twins, in 2024. His best season came in 2024 with the Twins, when he went 1-1 with a 1.77 ERA in 12 games. In the 12 games, Blewett pitched 20.1 innings, allowing only 4 earned runs, walking 8, and striking out 18 batters. Blewett got off to a strong start with the Twins this season, allowing just one run over 4.2 innings and striking out five while walking none. The Twins designated Blewett for assignment on Saturday, and he quickly found a new home. He should join Keegan Akin, Bryan Baker, and Matt Bowman in handling the middle innings for the Orioles.

The Baltimore Orioles strengthened their bullpen on Monday by claiming Scott Blewett off waivers from Minnesota

While the Orioles have yet to announce a corresponding roster move, it appears likely that the team will option Colin Selby, who was recalled last week to replace an injured Zach Eflin. What remains to be seen is whom the Orioles will option or designate for assignment when they need a fifth starter this weekend against the Reds, as the rotation currently stands at only four: Cade Povich, Dean Kremer, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano.

It's anyone's guess as to who will start for the Orioles on Saturday against Cincinnati, with Kyle Gibson representing the mostly likely option. In any event, Matt Bowman would likely draw the short straw, as he is one of the few Orioles with options remaining.

Another reliever whose days might be numbered is left-hander Cionel Perez. However, due to his past success in Baltimore, it appears likely that he is ahead of Selby and Bowman in the pecking order for Orioles to go down on this relief shakeup.

For now, the Orioles hope Blewett can supplement what has been a somewhat surprising strength this year in the Orioles' relief corps.