Orioles Designate Jhonkensy Noel for Assignment
The Baltimore Orioles have officially designated outfielder Jhonkensy Noel for assignment following a recent roster change. This decision allows the team to make room for Marco Luciano, who was claimed off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The move is part of a broader strategy employed by the Orioles as they actively manage their roster.
Jhonkensy Noel’s Recent History
At 24 years old, Noel was initially acquired just two days prior to this roster adjustment. While such quick transitions may seem unusual, they are increasingly common in Major League Baseball. Teams like the Orioles are exploring these tactics to enhance depth without overcrowding their roster.
Noel previously played for the Cleveland Guardians, where he displayed considerable power potential, hitting 19 home runs across 351 plate appearances. However, his approach at the plate raised concerns. His statistics include:
- Batting average: .193
- On-base percentage: .242
- Slugging percentage: .401
- Walk rate: 4.8%
- Strikeout rate: 32.8%
These figures indicate he performed 21% worse than the league average, emphasizing his need for further development.
Minor League Performance
Despite his struggles in the majors, Noel has shown promise in the minor leagues. Over the past two seasons at Triple-A, he has achieved:
- Plate appearances: 536
- Batting average: .285
- On-base percentage: .349
- Slugging percentage: .538
- Walk rate: 7.5%
- Strikeout rate: 23.7%
These improved stats suggest that Noel could attract interest from other teams, potentially allowing him to continue his career elsewhere.
Outfielder Marco Luciano Joins the Orioles
In the wake of Noel’s designation, the Orioles have added Marco Luciano to their roster. This acquisition reflects the team’s pursuit of talent and depth as they navigate their lineup strategy.
Impact on the Roster
With Jhonkensy Noel designated for assignment, the Orioles find themselves in a balancing act. If he clears waivers, he may remain within the organization, providing depth without a roster spot. However, should another organization claim him, he will leave Baltimore after a brief tenure.
Likewise, Josh Walker, another player who was recently designated for assignment, cleared waivers and has been re-assigned to Triple-A Norfolk. His situation draws parallels to Noel’s, showcasing the dynamic nature of player management in baseball.
Conclusion
As the Orioles work through their roster decisions, fans will be watching closely to see what opportunities might arise from these moves. The designation of Jhonkensy Noel underscores both the challenges and strategies involved in modern baseball roster management.
