The Baltimore Orioles have made a roster move by designating infielder Terrin Vavra for assignment, according to an official announcement. This decision clears space for first baseman Ryan Noda, who was claimed off waivers from the Chicago White Sox.
Terrin Vavra, 28, was originally picked in the third round of the 2018 draft by the Colorado Rockies and was later traded to the Orioles as part of the Mychal Givens deal in 2020. He made his major league debut in 2022, showcasing his abilities in 40 games with a solid .258 batting average, along with a .340 on-base percentage and .337 slugging percentage while playing second base and outfield. Unfortunately, Vavra’s 2023 season has been marred by injury; he started the season with the Orioles but appeared in only 27 games, struggling at the plate with a .214 average before his season was cut short due to a shoulder labrum tear. He underwent surgery in September 2023.
After returning to play at the Triple-A level, Vavra was designated for assignment and claimed by the Seattle Mariners briefly. His time with Seattle did not result in a major league appearance, and he later re-signed with Baltimore on a minor league contract. Despite two call-ups to the Orioles this season, Vavra has yet to return to the major leagues, and his performance at Triple-A Norfolk has also been subpar, posting a .247 average with a limited .341 slugging over 203 plate appearances.
If Vavra goes unclaimed on waivers, he has the option to accept a minor league assignment to Norfolk or to become a free agent. His exit from the roster paves the way for Ryan Noda, a 29-year-old who caught the Orioles’ attention after being selected from the White Sox. Noda was initially a Rule 5 draft pick by the Oakland Athletics and performed admirably in 2023, achieving a .229 average and a notable 15.6% walk rate. Although he has struggled this season with a .124 batting average, Baltimore’s current standings make this an opportune moment to allow Noda a chance to contribute as both a left-handed bench option and a potential replacement at first base and in the outfield.
This roster change reflects the Orioles’ strategy to invigorate their team dynamics as they navigate a challenging season, and it highlights Noda’s opportunity to carve out a meaningful role within the organization. With Vavra’s journey still unfolding, there remains hope that he can find his footing and contribute at the major league level in the future.