Needing to finalize their Opening Day 25-man roster by 3 p.m. on Sunday, the Orioles are reportedly parting ways with veteran relief pitcher Alfredo Aceves.
According to multiple outlets, the 31-year-old was informed he will not be making the 25-man roster and will exercise the opt-out clause in the minor-league deal he signed in the offseason. Aceves was 0-1 with a 4.50 earned run average in 10 innings of Grapefruit League action this spring.
Aceves’ departure likely leaves the final spot in the bullpen to former Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Evan Meek, who gave up one earned run and struck out 10 in nine innings this spring. Meek was a member of the 2010 National League All-Star team and spent last season in the Texas Rangers organization with Triple-A Round Rock.
The rest of the bullpen is expected to be composed of right-handers Tommy Hunter, Darren O’Day, Ryan Webb, and Josh Stinson and left-handers Brian Matusz and Zach Britton. Veteran southpaw Troy Patton will begin serving a 25-game suspension for amphetamine use at the start of the season and will not count against the active roster.
Though 35 players still remain in major league camp, the Orioles appear to only have one big decision remaining as top position prospect Jonathan Schoop and Jemile Weeks are battling for a roster spot.
