Orioles sign Mateo to avoid arbitration

The Orioles broke out another option year to bend from their file-and-go stance in arbitration.

Jorge Mateo has agreed to a contract for the 2025 season to avoid a hearing. He’s set to earn $3.55 million, according to an industry source.

The deal also includes a $5.5 million option for 2026 with escalators that could increase the value to $6 million based on plate appearances this season, per the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

The club added an extra year to previous agreements with John Means and Trey Mancini past the deadline to exchange figures. Otherwise, negotiations are closed. ]

Mateo filed for $4 million and the Orioles countered at $3.1 million. MLBTradeRumors.com projected a raise to $3.2.

Failure to exercise the option would send Mateo into free agency.

Mateo is recovering from a dislocated elbow that required reconstructive surgery, ending his season on July 23 and limiting him to 68 games. He batted .229/.267/.401 in 208 plate appearances, experiencing another decline after posting a .256/.326/.410 line in March/April.

The Orioles missed his speed – he stole 13 bases in 15 attempts – and defensive versatility. Executive vice president/general manager Mike Elias and manager Brandon Hyde have talked about it. Mateo made 52 starts at second base, three at shortstop and two in center field, and he's poised to work again in a utility role.

The surgery might delay Mateo’s availability at the beginning of camp, but the Orioles sound confident that he can get ready for Opening Day. He could be counted among seven infielders on the roster and serve as an extra right-handed hitting outfielder.

Maintaining the Orioles’ trust defensively beyond the infield would allow them to carry only four outfielders. Colton Cowser, Cedric Mullins and Tyler O'Neill are the locks, and Heston Kjerstad is the early favorite to join them. Dylan Carlson just signed a one-year deal but he has three minor league options.

Tonight’s contract agreement with Mateo allowed the Orioles to avoid any hearings with their 12 eligible players and the possible friction that accompanies it. Reliever Jacob Webb was the lone non-tender and he signed with the Rangers as a free agent.

The Orioles spent $45.5 million on their arbitration-eligible players.