Reliever Nick Anderson has joined the Orioles after opting out of a minor league contract with the Dodgers, according to Darren Wolfson of SKOR North (X link). It is unclear whether the righty would immediately join Baltimore’s MLB roster or sign a minor league contract to head to Triple-A Norfolk.
Anderson lasted around five weeks in the Dodger system. He joined with Los Angeles after being dismissed by the Royals following the All-Star break. He spent the first few weeks with the Dodgers in their Arizona complex. Los Angeles did not deploy him to Triple-A Oklahoma City until August 10. Anderson threw three times there, surrendering three runs (one earned) over 4 1/3 innings. He struck out five while issuing three walks.
Anderson worked as a middle reliever in Kansas City before his brief stay with the Dodgers. The 34-year-old posted a 4.04 ERA in 35 2/3 innings. The passable run prevention rating belied less impressive peripherals. Anderson’s strikeout percentage dropped to a career-low 19%, while he walked nearly 10% of opponents. He allowed six home runs, or more than 1.5 longballs per nine innings.
Anderson is only one season removed from a successful year with Atlanta. Last season, he pitched 35 1/3 innings for the Braves with a 3.04 ERA and struck out one fourth of his opponents. Anderson’s excellent performance was cut short by a shoulder ailment in July, but he has recovered his velocity in 2024.
While the Orioles are doing well overall, their bullpen has been shaky for nearly two months. Since the All-Star break, the Baltimore relief corps has had an earned run average of 4.85. Craig Kimbrel has slipped into a deep rut. Seranthony DomÃnguez and Gregory Soto have had home run difficulties, while setup man Jacob Webb has been out for three weeks with elbow soreness. Baltimore’s middle relief corps includes Burch Smith and Matt Bowman, both of whom signed midseason minor league contracts.
