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Orioles Add Jhonkensy Noel Off Waivers Amid MLB Offseason
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- Orioles Add Jhonkensy Noel Off Waivers Amid MLB Offseason
The Baltimore Orioles made a depth move on Monday, claimingright-handed slugger Jhonkensy Noel from the Cleveland Guardians . In acorresponding transaction, right-hander George Soriano was designated forassignment to create space on the 40-man roster.
New Orioles manager Craig Albernaz has a connection withNoel, as the two reunite in Baltimore. Albernaz previously served as benchcoach during Noel's two-year stint with the Guardians, giving him familiaritywith the young player's skill set and potential.
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The 24-year-old changes organizations for the first timesince signing with Cleveland as an international prospect in 2017. His profileis built around raw power, but his approach at the plate has been a concern.
In 351 major-league plate appearances, Noel has launched 19home runs, yet his 4.8% walk rate and 32.8% strikeout rate have produced alopsided .193/.242/.401 slash line. Those struggles ultimately led to him beingdesignated for assignment in December when Cleveland acquired left-hander Justin Bruihl from the Toronto Blue Jays .
Baltimore's decision to claim Noel reflects the club'saggressive approach to waiver-wire transactions. The Orioles often take chanceson players with upside, hoping to sneak them through waivers later and retainthem as non-roster depth.
Noel faces a steep path to playing time, as Baltimore'sroster already features a crowded mix of right-handed power bats including PeteAlonso, Coby Mayo , Ryan Mountcastle , Taylor Ward and Tyler O'Neill.
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The outfield corners and designated hitter spots aresimilarly packed, with Colton Cowser , Dylan Beavers , Leody Taveras , HestonKjerstad and other young players competing for at-bats.
Still, Noel's minor-league production offers reason forintrigue. Over 268 games at the Triple-A level, he has posted a .250 battingaverage,.323 on-base percentage, .796 OPS, 57 home runs and 183 RBIs. Hisstrikeout and walk rates were more manageable at that level, suggesting hecould provide value if given another opportunity. Out of options, Noel muststick on the active roster or risk being exposed to waivers again.
Soriano, meanwhile, exits Baltimore without making anappearance for the organization. The 27-year-old right-hander was claimed fromthe Miami Marlins in November after posting an 8.35 ERA across 24 appearances. Heshowed promise in Triple-A last season with a 2.32 ERA, making him a candidateto be claimed by another club and earn another opportunity.
For the Orioles, the move represents another attempt to addcontrollable depth while balancing a roster already built to contend in 2026.
