The MLB non-tender deadline is set for 8 p.m. tonight, requiring teams to decide whether to offer contracts to arbitration-eligible players or remove them from the 40-man roster. The Orioles have 12 such players this year, with most decisions being straightforward.
Key players like Adley Rutschman and Keegan Akin are certain to receive contract offers and negotiate terms for the 2025 season. However, a few players on the list remain uncertain and could become free agents by the weekend.
The Baltimore Orioles have been active at the non-tender deadline, making notable decisions regarding their roster. In a surprising move, the team chose to non-tender right-handed pitcher Jacob Webb. However, they avoided arbitration with infielder Emmanuel Rivera, a mid-season acquisition who impressed during his short stint with the team.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Rivera and the Orioles agreed to a one-year, $1 million contract for 2025. This move comes as a slight surprise, as Rivera was considered a potential non-tender candidate. However, his exceptional performance after being claimed off waivers from the Miami Marlins in 2024 secured him a spot on the roster. Over 27 games with the Orioles, Rivera posted an impressive .313/.370/.578 slash line, hitting four home runs and three doubles. His versatility at both infield corners and adjustments at the plate played a significant role in Baltimore’s decision to retain him.
While Rivera’s career prior to 2024 had been underwhelming, his production surged with the Orioles. His hard-hit rates climbed significantly, though a .364 batting average on balls in play (BABIP) suggests some luck was involved. Nonetheless, Rivera’s improved approach and solid on-base skills make him a worthwhile investment at this price.
Projected to earn $1.5 million in arbitration, Rivera’s $1 million deal represents a modest raise from his league-minimum salary of $745,000. His presence may impact top prospect Coby Mayo, who struggled in 2024. If Mayo falters during spring training, Rivera could fill a valuable backup role at the infield corners.
