The Baltimore Orioles have signed 30-year-old catcher Chadwick Tromp to a minor league contract, assigning him to Triple-A Norfolk. Tromp was designated for assignment by the Atlanta Braves last week and elected free agency.
*Tromp’s Background*
– Began professional career in the Cincinnati Reds organization in 2013
– Made MLB debut with the San Francisco Giants in 2020
– Claimed off waivers by the Braves in September 2021
– Appeared in 61 MLB games, slashing .224/.235/.385 over 162 plate appearances
*Role with the Orioles*
– Expected to provide depth behind Adley Rutschman and Gary Sánchez
– Offers solid defense behind the plate and some pop with 15 career extra-base hits
– Qualified for Baltimore’s third-string catching role
– May reduce pressure to promote top catching prospect Samuel Basallo in case of injuries ¹
*Current Orioles Catcher Situation*
– Adley Rutschman is the starter
– Gary Sánchez is the backup but has struggled so far this season with a -27 OPS+
– David Bañuelos is currently on the injured list, making room for Tromp in Triple-A Norfolk ²
Tromp’s signing provides sensible depth for the Orioles, especially with Bañuelos out and Sánchez struggling. His experience and defensive skills could be valuable assets for the team ¹.
The Orioles’ catching depth provides stability, with Adley Rutschman and Gary Sánchez handling the top two spots. Chadwick Tromp’s experience in Triple-A Norfolk offers a more seasoned option compared to David Bañuelos. This depth also gives the Orioles flexibility in case of injuries, allowing them to potentially delay promoting top prospect Samuel Basallo.
*Benefits of Tromp’s Presence*
– Provides experienced backup option
– Reduces pressure to rush Basallo’s development
– Allows Basallo to continue developing in Triple-A without immediate MLB pressure
*Basallo’s Development*
– 20-year-old prospect with promising skills
– Currently on minor league IL with hamstring injury
– Expected to debut toward the end of the season
– Orioles seem committed to his gradual development, prioritizing his growth over immediate need [1]
