Orioles Bring Back Albert Suárez on Minor League Deal

The Baltimore Orioles continued their offseason roster moves on Wednesday by agreeing to a minor league deal with right-hander Albert Suárez, according to The Baltimore Banner’s Andy Kostka. Suárez, 36, was non-tendered by the team last month but will return to the organization in hopes of making an impact at the major league level. The news comes alongside other roster updates, including catcher Maverick Handley heading to Triple-A after clearing waivers.

While not as high-profile as offseason additions like Taylor Ward via trade or Pete Alonso in free agency, Suárez brings experience and versatility to Baltimore’s pitching staff. He has the ability to contribute as both a starter and reliever, offering flexibility for a team looking to deepen its rotation and bullpen options.

Suárez’s career has seen peaks and gaps. He made his MLB debut with the San Francisco Giants in 2016, also appearing in 2017, before returning to the majors in 2024 with the Orioles. That season proved to be his most productive, as he posted a 3.70 ERA over 32 appearances, including 24 starts, demonstrating he can handle a significant workload.

Injuries limited Suárez to just five games in 2025, but the Orioles are betting on his ability to regain form. The minor league deal represents a low-risk move that could pay dividends if Suárez can stay healthy and replicate his 2024 performance.

1. Career Overview and Versatility

Albert Suárez began his major league journey with the Giants, pitching at the big league level in 2016 and 2017. After a long hiatus, he returned to the majors with the Orioles in 2024, showcasing his ability to be an effective starter and reliever. During the 2024 campaign, Suárez made 32 appearances, including 24 starts, and posted a 3.70 ERA. His ability to transition between starting and bullpen roles makes him an asset for a team like Baltimore, which values flexibility in its pitching staff. At 36 years old, Suárez brings veteran experience to a team still building around its young core. He has seen various pitching situations throughout his career, giving him the tools to navigate high-leverage innings when called upon. The Orioles’ decision to bring him back underscores their strategy of pairing low-risk veteran signings with higher-profile acquisitions. If Suárez can stay healthy, he could fill multiple roles and provide critical depth.

2. Orioles’ Offseason Strategy

The signing of Suárez is part of a busy offseason for Baltimore. The team has already added Taylor Ward through a trade and signed slugger Pete Alonso in free agency, signaling a commitment to both pitching and offensive upgrades. Suárez’s return complements the team’s ongoing pursuit of additional pitching talent, with the Orioles also linked to free-agent Framber Valdez. Baltimore appears focused on balancing proven veterans with emerging talent to maintain a competitive roster in 2025 and beyond. Adding Suárez on a minor league deal allows the team to manage risk while retaining a pitcher who has shown the ability to perform at the MLB level. This strategy gives the Orioles roster flexibility without committing a significant portion of payroll. The move also highlights the organization’s approach to player development and roster depth. By keeping experienced arms like Suárez in the system, Baltimore ensures coverage for injuries or rotation adjustments during the long season.

3. Potential Impact and Outlook

Suárez’s health will be a key factor in determining his impact in 2026. If he can stay on the mound for an extended stretch, the Orioles could benefit from a pitcher capable of starting or relieving at a high level. His 2024 performance provides a blueprint for success. Maintaining similar command and effectiveness could help stabilize the rotation and give manager the flexibility to use him in multiple roles. Even as a minor league signee, Suárez brings leadership and experience that can benefit younger pitchers in the organization. Veterans like him often play a crucial role in mentoring emerging talent during spring training and throughout the season. At 36, Suárez may not be expected to carry the rotation, but his versatility, experience, and potential upside make him a low-risk, high-reward addition for the Orioles as they continue their offseason rebuild.