Orioles outright Vielma

Elgelb Vielma might actually stick with one organization before spring training.

The Orioles outrighted Vielma to Triple-A Norfolk this morning after designating him for assignment on Tuesday to create an opening for pitcher Dillon Tate on the 40-man roster. Tate's contract was purchased from Double-A Bowie to protect him in the Rule 5 draft that's going to be held on Dec. 13 at the Winter Meetings in Las Vegas.

Engelb cleared waivers, a departure from his odyssey last offseason.

The Giants selected Engelb off waivers from the Twins on Sept. 14, 2017. The Phillies selected him in November and the Pirates grabbed him a month later.

Hold off on those airline reservations.

The Giants claimed him again on Jan. 18 and traded him to the Orioles eight days later for a player to be named later or cash.

Vielma fractured his patella in May while playing for Norfolk. He was chasing a foul ball, crashed into the railing and underwent season-ending surgery. He appeared in six games with the Orioles and was 1-for-7.

The Orioles could invite Vielma to spring training in February and allow him to compete for a utility job. He provides more infield depth in the system, an area that's been lacking in recent years.

Vielma, 24, made his major league debut on April 13 in Boston and made his first start - and received his first at-bats - in an April 18 game in Detroit. He never got the chance to play at Camden Yards, with all six of his appearances coming on the road.

The Orioles like Vielma's defensive work and ability to move around the infield. He played shortstop and second base for them and also has third base experience in the minors.

He's a career .255/.314/.302 hitter in 555 minor league games.

The 40-man roster is full with Tate's inclusion, but Friday marks the deadline to tender contracts to arbitration-eligible players and at least one spot could open. Also, the Orioles likely will designated more players for assignment.