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Former Orioles swingman signs with Mariners in free agency

One of the Orioles breakout stars of 2022 is headed to the west coast

By Michael Najarian|
May 21, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Austin Voth (51) delivers a pitch during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre
May 21, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Austin Voth (51) delivers a pitch during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre | Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

While the Orioles themselves haven't done a lot to add to the team this offseason, merely bringing in a closer and some depth pitching, markets appear to be moving for some former members of the Orioles.

FanSided's Robert Murray reported on Wednesday that Austin Voth, part of the Orioles in 2022 and 2023, signed a one-year contract worth $1.25 million with the Seattle Mariners. The contract is a major league deal, so expect Voth to break camp with the Mariners on their opening day roster.

Former Orioles pitcher Austin Voth joins Mariners on major league contract

Voth's tenure in Baltimore can be described similarly to a Jekyll and Hyde situation. Voth joined the Orioles when they claimed him off waivers from the Washington Nationals in June of 2022 as they stockpiled pitching depth they could try to turn around.

They sure did turn him around, with Voth becoming a mainstay in the Orioles rotation that season. He posted a 3.04 ERA and 1.229 WHIP in 17 starts, 22 total appearances, and 83 innings pitched while striking out 72 hitters and walking 25. There was optimism that Voth had finally found the sustained success he was looking for.

Unfortunately, 2023 didn't go very well for Voth. Spending the year in the bullpen as the Orioles found better options in the rotation, he went back to struggling. He posted a 5.19 ERA, 5.10 FIP, and 1.558 WHIP while averaging 3.9 walks per nine in 25 appearances and 34 2/3 innings pitched.

In addition to his lack of success on the mound, Voth also battled injuries throughout the course of the year, spending a large chunk of the season on the 60 Day IL due to elbow discomfort in his right arm that took a while to get better. He was activated towards the end of the regular season and didn't pitch in the playoffs.

Voth can be under contract by the Mariners beyond this season if the dice fall his way, as he's still arbitration eligible through the 2025 season, and he's scheduled to hit free agency after 2025. Best of luck to Austin as he joins the Mariners.

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