Baltimore Orioles breaking news today, the Baltimore Orioles made a roster move that flew somewhat under the radar, announcing that outfielder Will Robertson had been designated for assignment. The decision effectively brought a swift end to Robertson’s brief tenure with the organization, which lasted barely a few weeks after the Orioles claimed him off waivers earlier in the offseason.
Baltimore had picked up Robertson from the Pittsburgh Pirates in early December, hoping that a change of scenery and some organizational depth could unlock more value from the 28-year-old outfielder. However, less than a month later, the Orioles chose to remove him from their 40-man roster, signaling that he no longer factored into their immediate or short-term plans as they continued to fine-tune their roster.
Robertson’s recent major-league track record likely played a role in the Orioles’ decision. During the 2025 season, he split time between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Chicago White Sox, appearing in a total of 27 games at the big-league level. Across those opportunities, he struggled mightily at the plate, posting a slash line of .129/.173/.143. In 75 plate appearances, Robertson managed just nine RBIs while striking out 27 times, numbers that underscored the difficulty he had adjusting to major-league pitching during that stretch.
His time with Toronto was especially brief. Robertson appeared in just three games for the Blue Jays in June before the club decided to move on, trading him to the White Sox in exchange for cash considerations. The transaction reflected Toronto’s willingness to part ways quickly, while Chicago viewed him as a low-risk depth option who could provide outfield coverage and potential upside if his bat rebounded.
While Robertson’s major-league production left much to be desired, his performance in the minors told a more encouraging story. Most of his playing time in 2025 came at the Triple-A level, where he split assignments between Buffalo in the Blue Jays’ system and Charlotte in the White Sox organization. Over 89 games at those stops, Robertson showed considerably more pop, belting 20 home runs and ripping 21 doubles. That power output highlighted the gap that often exists between minor-league success and translating those results consistently against major-league competition.
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For the Baltimore Orioles breaking news today, designating Robertson for assignment was likely more about roster flexibility than a complete indictment of his abilities. Baltimore has been aggressive in shaping its roster as it looks to remain competitive in the American League East, a division that demands depth, versatility, and reliable production. With several outfield options already in the mix and others pushing from the farm system, Robertson became expendable despite his raw power and experience.
Now designated for assignment, Robertson’s future will depend on whether another organization sees enough upside to claim him off waivers or work out a minor trade. If he clears waivers, Baltimore would have the option to outright him to the minor leagues, provided he accepts the assignment, or release him outright. Given his Triple-A power numbers, it would not be surprising if another club in need of outfield depth takes a chance on him, especially one willing to stash him at the minor-league level as insurance.
From Robertson’s perspective, the move represents yet another setback in a career marked by constant transitions and short opportunities. Bouncing between organizations in rapid succession can make it difficult for players to find rhythm or consistency, particularly hitters who rely on timing and confidence. Still, his ability to drive the ball in the minors suggests there may be more left in the tank if he lands in a situation that affords him steady playing time and patience.
For Baltimore, the transaction closes the book on a low-cost experiment that ultimately didn’t fit their roster construction. As the Orioles continue preparing for the season ahead, moves like this are part of the process of trimming the margins and ensuring that every spot is aligned with their competitive goals. Meanwhile, Robertson will once again look for a new opportunity, hoping the next stop provides the stability and runway he needs to translate his minor-league success into meaningful major-league production.
Why did the Orioles make this abrupt decision?
The Baltimore Orioles made a roster adjustment involving outfielder Will Robertson, designating him for assignment in order to open a spot on the club’s 40-man roster for starting pitcher Zach Eflin. The move coincided with Eflin’s return to Baltimore on a one-year contract, bringing back a familiar arm who made 14 starts for the Baltimore Orioles during the 2025 season.
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With Eflin rejoining the rotation, the organization opted to create space by removing Robertson from the roster, a decision that reflects both immediate pitching needs and the ongoing churn that often defines the back end of a major league roster.
While being designated for assignment can sound final, Robertson’s future with the Orioles has not necessarily been sealed. Under MLB rules, he must first pass through waivers, giving the other 29 teams an opportunity to claim him. If he goes unclaimed, Baltimore would have the option to keep him within the organization by assigning him outright to the minor leagues.
In that scenario, Robertson would need to accept a move to Triple-A Norfolk, where he could continue playing while providing depth should injuries or performance issues arise at the major league level. Players in similar situations often find themselves in limbo for a few days, waiting to learn whether another club sees an opportunity or whether they will remain where they are, albeit in a different role.
Robertson’s brief tenure with the Orioles highlights how quickly circumstances can change for fringe major leaguers. He joined Baltimore earlier in December after being claimed off waivers, but his stay lasted only a few weeks before roster pressures forced the organization to make another move.
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These types of transactions are common during the offseason, when teams are constantly juggling players to maximize flexibility and address immediate needs, particularly on the pitching side. For Baltimore, adding Eflin was a priority, and that necessity ultimately outweighed Robertson’s place on the 40-man roster.
Before his time with the Orioles, Robertson’s professional journey began when he was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the fourth round of the 2019 MLB Draft. That selection reflected the promise he showed as an amateur hitter, particularly his power potential. Robertson developed a reputation as a slugger during his collegiate career, spending three seasons at Creighton University.
While playing for the Bluejays, he demonstrated a consistent ability to drive the ball, finishing his college career with 30 home runs. That power output made him an intriguing prospect and helped elevate his draft stock, as teams are always searching for hitters who can change games with one swing.
Despite that pedigree, the transition to professional baseball has proven challenging. Like many players drafted for their offensive upside, Robertson has had to adjust to better pitching, refined scouting reports, and the grind of a longer season.
Those adjustments can take time, and not every prospect develops on a straight upward path. Still, his background suggests there is more potential to tap into, especially at the minor league level, where consistent playing time can help refine approach and confidence at the plate.
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For the Orioles, the decision to designate Robertson was less about his long-term talent and more about immediate roster management. Carrying Eflin required a spot, and teams rarely hesitate to prioritize pitching, particularly a proven starter who has already shown he can contribute at the major league level. Eflin’s familiarity with Baltimore’s staff and clubhouse also likely played a role, making his return an easier call for the front office.
If Robertson clears waivers and accepts an assignment to Triple-A, he would remain a part of the organization’s depth chart, capable of stepping in if circumstances change. Injuries, underperformance, or further roster moves could all create opportunities later in the season.
For now, however, his path is uncertain, defined by the waiver process and the realities of roster constraints. Such moments are common in professional baseball, where opportunity and stability can hinge on timing as much as talent, and where players must continually adapt to shifting roles in pursuit of a lasting place in the game.
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