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The Baltimore Orioles decided this Saturday to end, at least temporarily, the phase of the Cuban left-handed pitcher Cionel Pérez, by designating him for assignment after a start to the season that fell far below expectations in Major League Baseball.
The decision was made in the midst of a complicated context for the organization, which is going through a first third of the season filled with uncertainty, marked by the firing of the manager and the urgent need to strengthen its bullpen.
Figures that explain the movement
Pérez, 28 years old and hailing from Matanzas, signed with the Orioles in 2021 after being claimed off waivers from Cincinnati. His arrival was seen as one of the best decisions made by general manager Mike Elias, according to Pelota Cubana.
However, following an excellent season in 2022 with an ERA of 1.40, his performance began to decline: in 2023 it rose to 3.54, in 2024 to 4.53, and so far in 2025, his ERA has skyrocketed to 8.31 in 19 appearances, with a WHIP of 2.12.
In his last appearance, on Friday against Boston, he allowed five runs in one inning, including a three-run home run by Rob Refsnyder. It was the third home run he allowed in 2025, having not given up any the previous year. This performance marked the end of his time with Baltimore.
What’s next for Cionel Pérez?
Due to the lack of options for being sent to the minors, the Cuban left-hander will have to wait to see if any franchise claims him through the waiver process. If he is not claimed, he could be assigned to Triple-A within the Baltimore system or become a free agent if he prefers.
Pérez has appeared in 257 games in the MLB, all as a reliever, with a record of 15 wins, 6 losses, and an earned run average of 4.22. He has accumulated 237 innings, during which he allowed 222 hits, 129 walks, 218 strikeouts, and a career WHIP of 1.48. He has worn the uniforms of Houston, Cincinnati, and Baltimore.
Time will tell if any team decides to invest in his recovery and potential, but for now, his cycle with the Orioles closes amid unfulfilled promises and questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cionel Pérez and his situation with the Baltimore Orioles
Why did the Baltimore Orioles designate Cionel Pérez for assignment?
The Baltimore Orioles designated Cionel Pérez for assignment due to his poor performance at the start of the 2025 season, where he posted an ERA of 8.31 in 19 appearances and a WHIP of 2.12. This decision comes amidst uncertainty for the team, which is looking to strengthen its bullpen following a disappointing start to the campaign.
What options does Cionel Pérez have after being designated for assignment?
Without options to be sent to the minor leagues, Cionel Pérez will have to wait to be claimed by a franchise through the waivers process. If he is not claimed, he could be assigned to Triple-A within the Baltimore system or become a free agent if he chooses not to accept the assignment.
What has Cionel Pérez's journey in Major League Baseball been like?
Cionel Pérez has appeared in 257 games in MLB, achieving a record of 15 wins and 6 losses, with an earned run average of 4.22. He has played for the teams of Houston, Cincinnati, and Baltimore, showing variable performance throughout his career, with a standout year in 2022 where he achieved an earned run average of 1.40.
What does Cionel Pérez's departure mean for the Baltimore Orioles?
The departure of Cionel Pérez represents an attempt by the Baltimore Orioles to restructure their bullpen at a critical point in the season. The team is looking to improve its overall performance after a start filled with uncertainty, which included the firing of the manager and the need to strengthen their bullpen with more reliable pitchers.
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