Janish outrighted to Triple-A Norfolk, elects free agency

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

October 13, 2016, 9:46am

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Update: The Orioles just announced that infielder Paul Janish elected free agency after passing through waivers. He refused an outright assignment and is free to sign with any team.

Janish, who turned 34 yesterday, is hoping that the Orioles retain interest in him, but he may as well check the market.

Janish has the right to refuse the assignment based on a previous outright.

Manager Buck Showalter is a huge supporter of Janish, placing great value on the infielder's defense at shortstop and general approach to the game.

Janish re-signed with the Orioles last winter, accepting a minor league deal over a similar offer from the Astros. He went 6-for-31 in 14 games and batted .248/.333/.280 with eight doubles and 18 RBIs with 76 games with Norfolk.

Janish committed only two errors in 297 chances with the Tides. It's a glove story.

The Orioles designated Janish for assignment on Oct. 7 to create a spot for left-hander Jed Bradley on the 40-man roster. Janish will most likely be invited to spring training and compete for a utility job.

The Orioles selected Janish's contract on May 7 and outrighted him on June 21.They selected his contract again on Sept. 15 and added him to their expanded roster in September, but he didn't get into a game.

Janish went 10-for-35 with three doubles in 14 games with the Orioles in 2015.