Orioles Assign Maverick Handley for Designation
The Baltimore Orioles have officially designated catcher Maverick Handley for assignment. This decision coincides with the team’s recent signing of first baseman Pete Alonso.
Maverick Handley’s Major League Journey
Maverick Handley, who will turn 28 in March, made his major league debut in 2025. He began the season as a depth option behind catchers Adley Rutschman and Gary Sánchez. However, both Rutschman and Sánchez faced injuries, necessitating Handley’s promotion.
Performance Overview
During his time with the Orioles, Handley amassed 47 plate appearances over 16 games. His performance was challenging, as he recorded a strikeout rate of 38.3% and a walk rate of only 4.3%. His batting line was significantly low at .073/.133/.073.
In a strategic move, the Orioles called up catching prospect Samuel Basallo late in the season and secured him with a contract extension. Rutschman is still under team control through arbitration until 2027, positioning him and Basallo as the primary catchers moving forward.
Roster Changes and Future Implications
As part of recent roster changes, both Handley and Drew Romo had been on the 40-man roster. Following Romo’s designation for assignment yesterday, the Orioles are left with only two catchers on the main roster, alongside two players in a state of DFA limbo.
- Maverick Handley: Designated for assignment
- Drew Romo: Recently designated for assignment
- Adley Rutschman: Key catcher retained through 2027
- Samuel Basallo: Promising catching prospect
Handley has not previously been outright, nor does he possess three years of major league service time. Consequently, he does not have the right to opt for free agency if he clears waivers unclaimed. The same conditions apply to Romo.
Waiver and Trade Considerations
The waiver process extends over 48 hours, and the Orioles have a week to determine Handley’s future. If he and Romo pass through waivers unclaimed, they may remain in the organization as depth catchers. However, if either player is claimed, it could prompt the Orioles to seek additional catching depth either through the waiver wire or minor league agreements.
Despite a rocky major league performance, Handley’s minor league statistics show promise. In 2023, he took 765 plate appearances with a 14% walk rate, hitting nine home runs and achieving a .227/.352/.323 batting average, reflecting a wRC+ of 87.
If he finds another team, Handley still retains options and has less than a year’s service time, which may provide him with opportunities for continued development in the MLB.
