"Vazquez was already controlled for 2026 as a pre-arbitration player, but this transaction gives Vazquez a bit more roster security (for now) and probably gives him a small bump over the minimum salary was slated to earn next year. The signing bears some similarities to Baltimore's deal with Rico Garcia, which was also announced on Thursday. In essence, Vazquez's big league deal and Garcia's split contract are meant to deter teams from claiming either player on waivers, should the Orioles designate either for assignment this winter."
"Known as an excellent defender, Vazquez has might be able to carve out a bench spot in the Show on his glovework alone, and he'll get some consideration for the Orioles' utility infield position during Spring Training. However, he'll have to deliver something more at the plate than his .404 OPS over 67 career big league plate appearances. His work at Triple-A has been much more respectable, as Vazquez has hit .252/.340/.408 over 839 career PA with the Cubs' and Orioles' top affiliates."
Luis Vazquez signed a Major League contract with the Baltimore Orioles for the 2026 season, providing added roster security and likely a small salary bump. The deal is similar to the club's transaction with Rico Garcia and is intended to discourage waiver claims if either player is designated for assignment. Vazquez joined Baltimore from the Cubs in January, was briefly designated and outrighted, and later had his contract selected in June. He appeared in 32 MLB games in 2025, hit his first big league home run, and is valued for his defense but must improve a .404 career OPS in 67 big-league plate appearances; his Triple-A line is .252/.340/.408 over 839 PA.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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