Seattle Mariners Claim Pitcher Off Waivers From Red Sox

The Seattle Mariners have made an unexpected move by adding 31-year-old right-handed pitcher Kaleb Ort to their roster, claiming him off waivers from the Boston Red Sox.

Ort had a challenging 2023 season, with a 6.26 ERA in 21 appearances and a stint on the Injured List due to elbow inflammation.

News: Mariners announce they've claimed RHP Kaleb Ort off waivers from the Red Sox; catcher Brian O’Keefe was designated for assignment by the Mariners to clear the 40-man roster spot. @MLBNetwork @SeattleSports
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) October 13, 2023

Despite these setbacks, the Mariners seem to see some potential in Ort, as they've decided to add him to their 40-man roster.

Kaleb Ort's journey to the Majors has been an interesting one.

He was signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks as an undrafted free agent in 2016, and he later had stints with the New York Yankees before becoming a Rule 5 Draft selection by the Boston Red Sox in 2020.

Red Sox news: Kaleb Ort was claimed off waivers by the Mariners, per source.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) October 13, 2023

Ort has accumulated Major League experience, primarily with the Red Sox, where he has a career record of 2-4 with one save and a 6.27 ERA in 47 games, including two starts.

His MLB debut took place on September 13, 2021, ironically against the Mariners at T-Mobile Park.

While Ort's recent performance and injury history may raise eyebrows, the Mariners' decision to add him suggests they see potential in him that could benefit their pitching staff.

It will be interesting to see how he performs with his new team in the upcoming season. Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports