Orioles Sign Former Astros Outfielder to Strengthen Offense Against Left-Handed Pitching
The Baltimore Orioles are adding a former breakout star from spring training in an effort to improve their performance against left-handed pitchers.
Baltimore’s lineup has struggled significantly against left-handed pitching this season, prompting the team to look for outside solutions. According to MASNsports’ Roch Kubatko, the Orioles will sign outfielder Cooper Hummel and designate infielder Terrin Vavra for assignment to make room for Hummel on the 40-man roster.
Hummel, who impressed during spring training with the Houston Astros, was unable to secure a spot on their Major League roster. He posted an impressive .316/.435/.447 slash line with five doubles in spring training. Many expected him to break camp with the Astros, but the team ultimately went with rookie Cam Smith instead, leaving Hummel in the minors. A few weeks later, Hummel was designated for assignment and chose free agency.
The 30-year-old switch-hitter later signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees but was released on May 24. In the minors this season, Hummel has posted a .258/.415/.209 slash line, with a solid on-base percentage.
What likely caught Baltimore’s attention is Hummel’s outstanding performance against left-handed pitchers this season. He is batting .375/.500/.375 against southpaws, while the Orioles have struggled against lefties, posting a .203/.281/.279 slash line. Any improvement in that area is worth considering.
As for Vavra, who was originally acquired in the 2020 trade for Mychal Givens, he has made 67 Major League appearances before being DFA’d in 2024. He returned on a minor league deal and has spent the year in the minors, slashing .317/.388/.450. However, as another left-handed hitter, he doesn’t provide the kind of balance the Orioles need against left-handed pitchers.
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