Orioles claim Vallimont off waivers (and other notes)

NEW YORK – The constant hunt for pitching has led the Orioles to right-hander Chris Vallimont.

Vallimont was claimed off waivers today from the Twins and optioned to Double-A Bowie.

Room was created on the 40-man roster by transferring pitcher Alexander Wells to the 60-day injured list with a Grade 1 UCL strain.

Vallimont, 25, was designated for assignment on Saturday after making seven appearances (six starts) at Double-A Wichita and posting a 9.95 ERA and 2.684 WHIP in 19 innings. He walked 23 batters and struck out 20.

The Marlins drafted Vallimont in the fifth round in 2018 out of Mercyhurst University and traded him a year later. He’s 13-20 with a 4.94 ERA and 1.431 WHIP in 64 minor league games, only two out of the bullpen.

Vallimont has surrendered only 27 home runs in 269 2/3 innings and averages 10.9 strikeouts. He’s never pitched in Triple-A.

Wells was projected to miss eight to 12 weeks with his injury. He figured to hit the 60-day IL as soon as the Orioles needed to add another player to the 40-man.

Still no word on catcher Anthony Bemboom, who was designated for assignment last weekend while the club selected Adley Rutschman's contract.

The Orioles need a starter for Saturday’s doubleheader in Boston, and Hyde said “it’s definitely probable or possible” that the pitcher is chosen from Triple-A Norfolk.

One possibility is Denyi Reyes, who made his major league debut on May 13 in Detroit and retired all six batters he faced and got two strikeouts.

Double-A Bowie left-hander Drew Rom has been reinstated from the injured list.

Norfolk’s game was postponed tonight due to rain, setting up a doubleheader Thursday at Harbor Park. DL Hall is pushed back a day.