Orioles Claim Journeyman Pitcher Off Waivers From Mets

August 06, 2025 ,
New York Mets reliever Rico Garcia pitches during 2025 game.

The Baltimore Orioles have added another arm to their thinned-out bullpen, claiming 31-year-old right-hander Rico Garcia off waivers from the New York Mets. 

Garcia has been one of the most well-traveled relievers in baseball this season, bouncing between the Mets, New York Yankees, and now back to the Orioles, a team he briefly pitched for in 2022. This move gives Baltimore a familiar and in-form arm during a stretch where their bullpen is running on fumes.

Rico Garcia's Strong 2025 Numbers Offer Hope

Despite the constant movement, Garcia has been quietly productive in 2025. Over 15.1 innings split between the Mets and Yankees, he's posted a solid 3.52 ERA with 18 strikeouts and just four walks. His strikeout rate (30%), walk rate (6.7%), and groundball rate (45.9%) all rank above league average, indicating potential as a reliable middle-innings option. 

Still, concerns linger about his command consistency, as shown by a 13.7% walk rate in 119.2 Triple-A innings since 2023. Even so, with the Orioles down multiple relievers, including Félix Bautista and Gregory Soto, Garcia is a low-cost flyer with upside.

Familiar Territory and an Open Door

This marks Garcia’s second stint in Baltimore after a brief six-game appearance in 2022. He’s out of minor league options, so the Orioles will need to clear an active roster spot to keep him. Given their recent trades and injury woes, there’s a real opportunity for Garcia to carve out a role. 

He may not be a closer, but his recent metrics suggest he could be a serviceable seventh-inning option down the stretch. For a team searching for answers in the bullpen, Garcia’s return could turn out to be more than just a roster fill.

Photo Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

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