Orioles Claim Catcher Yohel Pozo, Designate Johnathan Rodríguez for Assignment

The Baltimore Orioles made another roster move Thursday as they continue to reshape their depth ahead of the MLB trade deadline, claiming veteran catcher Yohel Pozo off waivers from the St. Louis Cardinals and designating outfielder Johnathan Rodríguez for assignment to clear a spot on the club’s 40-man roster. Pozo was immediately optioned to Triple-A Norfolk after the claim.

The move gives Baltimore additional catching depth at a time when the organization has been hit hard by injuries behind the plate. With both Adley Rutschman and Samuel Basallo sidelined, the Orioles have been searching for experienced options capable of providing organizational depth while remaining ready for a major league opportunity.

Pozo, 29, has appeared in parts of three major league seasons with the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals. A right-handed hitter known more for his bat than his defense, he owns a career major league batting average in the mid-.240s and has shown the ability to provide occasional power. He has also been a productive offensive catcher throughout much of his minor league career, making him a valuable insurance option for Baltimore.

Rather than joining the Orioles immediately, Pozo will report to Triple-A Norfolk, where he gives the Tides another experienced catcher while remaining just a phone call away if Baltimore needs reinforcement.

The corresponding move was the designation of Rodríguez for assignment. The Orioles acquired the 26-year-old outfielder from the Cleveland Guardians earlier this season, hoping his power potential would translate to Baltimore’s system. Although Rodríguez has flashed impressive raw power throughout his minor league career, consistent contact has remained an obstacle at the major league level, ultimately leaving him without a long-term role on the current roster.

The DFA process gives Baltimore up to seven days to trade Rodríguez or place him on outright waivers. If he clears waivers, he could remain in the organization as minor league depth, though another club could decide to claim the power-hitting outfielder.

What It Means for the Orioles

This transaction is less about adding an everyday contributor and more about strengthening organizational depth.

The Orioles have dealt with injuries throughout the season and have frequently relied on Norfolk to fill roster vacancies. Adding a catcher with major league experience provides valuable insurance during a stretch in which Baltimore is trying to stay competitive while navigating injuries.

With the trade deadline approaching, the move could also be an indication that the Orioles are preparing for additional roster changes in the coming days. Strengthening depth at Triple-A often precedes trades or other personnel moves as clubs position themselves for the final two months of the season.

MSB Analysis

Pozo is unlikely to make an immediate impact in Baltimore unless another injury occurs, but this is the type of under-the-radar move successful organizations make throughout the season. Experienced catchers are always in demand, and having one stationed at Norfolk gives the Orioles flexibility.

For Rodríguez, the designation is disappointing but not surprising. His power has never been questioned, but the inability to consistently make contact at the major league level made him expendable as Baltimore searched for roster flexibility.

As the trade deadline draws closer, do not be surprised if this is only one of several roster moves the Orioles make over the next week.