Orioles claim Waddell off waivers and DFA Flaa

Less than two weeks after making his major league debut, right-hander Jay Flaa has been designated for assignment and removed from the Orioles' 40-man roster.

Space was required this afternoon after the Orioles claimed left-hander Brandon Waddell off waivers from the Twins and assigned him to Triple-A Norfolk.

Waddell, 26, was a Pirates fifth-round selection in the 2015 draft out of the University of Virginia. He's made six relief appearances over the past two seasons and allowed six earned runs (seven total) and 12 hits in 7 1/3 innings. He's walked five batters and struck out three.

The Twins used Waddell in four games this season and he surrendered five earned runs (six total) and 10 hits with two home runs over four innings.

He was an Oct. 30, 2020 waiver claim, designated for assignment in February, outrighted and returned to the active roster in April. The Twins designated him again yesterday to make room for outfielder Trevor Larnach on the 40-man roster.

Waddell pitched in the deciding game of the 2015 College World Series and earned the win.

The Tides receive an extra left-hander for their bullpen to pair with veteran Fernando Abad. The Orioles are carrying southpaw relievers Tanner Scott and Paul Fry.

Flaa, chosen by the Orioles in the sixth round in 2015 out of North Dakota State, made his only major league appearance April 27 against the Yankees and tossed 1 1/3 scoreless innings. He walked two batters, induced a double play grounder from Giancarlo Stanton and struck out Aaron Judge.

The Orioles optioned Flaa to the alternate training site in Bowie after the game to create a spot for Dean Kremer.

Flaa, 28, became the fifth Oriole to make his major league debut in April and the 20th native of North Dakota.