Jon Heyman of The New York Post reports that the Orioles are signing infielder J.D. Davis to a minor league deal, according to Andy Kostka of The Baltimore Banner. Davis, who was released by the Yankees last week, is joining the Orioles on a non-major league contract.
At 31, Davis had enjoyed a strong five-year stretch with above-average hitting before this season, which has been particularly challenging for him. He won an arbitration case against the Giants for a $6.9 million salary, but this victory proved ineffective as his salary was not guaranteed under the collective bargaining agreement. The Giants then signed Matt Chapman and Blake Snell, leading to Davis’s release and a payout of approximately $1.1 million in termination pay.
Davis subsequently signed a $2.5 million deal with the Athletics but struggled with injuries and performance, resulting in a .236/.304/.366 slash line and a designation for assignment in June. The Yankees acquired him but gave him minimal playing time due to illness, leading to his release just before the trade deadline.
Despite this tough year, the Orioles are taking a low-risk chance with Davis on a minor league deal. His past performance from 2019 to 2023, with a .268/.352/.443 slash line and a 120 wRC+, suggests he has potential. The Orioles will only owe him the prorated major league minimum salary if he makes it to the big leagues, with the Yankees covering the rest of his contract.
With Jorge Mateo and Jordan Westburg currently on the injured list, Davis could provide valuable depth. If he finds his form and Mayo continues to struggle, Davis could be a cost-effective solution for the Orioles. He is expected to report to Triple-A Norfolk soon to get more regular at-bats.
