Orioles Make Decision After Trade With NL Contender

Daniel Kucin Jr&period;-Imagn Images

Orioles Make Decision After Trade With NL Contender

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 17, 2026 4:27 PM ET

Cam Sanders is getting an immediate opportunity with the Baltimore Orioles after arriving in a trade earlier this week. Baltimore recalled the hard-throwing right-hander from Triple-A Norfolk on Friday ahead of its second-half opener against the Houston Astros, just four days after acquiring him from the Pittsburgh Pirates for cash considerations.

To make room on the active roster, the Orioles optioned left-handed pitcher Nick Raquet to Triple-A Norfolk. The move gives Baltimore another bullpen option as it looks to build on its four-game winning streak entering the second half.

Sanders, 29, spent time with both Pittsburgh and Triple-A Indianapolis before being designated for assignment. Baltimore quickly added him to its organization, hoping his high-velocity arsenal can translate into a more consistent relief role despite his struggles earlier this season.

The Orioles fill out their bullpen by recalling newcomer Cam Sanders from Triple-A.

Baltimore acquired Sanders in a cash deal with the Pirates earlier this week.
— Jacob Calvin Meyer (@jcalvinmeyer) July 17, 2026

Sanders appeared in nine games for the Pirates in 2026, posting an 8.68 ERA across 9.1 innings while striking out 13 batters. His biggest issue was command, issuing 10 walks, but his fastball regularly sits around 96 mph and his slider has generated an impressive whiff rate against major league hitters.

Baltimore's front office has consistently targeted pitchers with strong underlying metrics, and Sanders fits that profile. The Orioles will likely try to simplify his approach and improve his strike-throwing in hopes of unlocking his late-inning potential.

The Orioles entered the All-Star break with a 46-51 record, sitting fourth in the American League East and 10.5 games behind the division-leading Tampa Bay Rays. Injuries throughout the roster have forced the club to lean on organizational depth as it tries to stay in the postseason race.

Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz (55)Aaron Doster-Imagn Images

If Sanders can improve his control, he could become a valuable bullpen piece for Baltimore during the second half. His velocity and swing-and-miss stuff give the Orioles another intriguing arm to evaluate.

Friday's promotion also represents a quick turnaround after his departure from Pittsburgh, giving Sanders an immediate chance to prove he can contribute to a contending club despite his difficult first half.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: