The Baltimore Orioles have secured a deal with Jorge Mateo for the 2025 season, with an added club option for 2026. This agreement, finalized earlier this week, sees Mateo earning $3.55 million in 2025, according to a source close to the matter. This is a significant step for Mateo, who was the lone arbitration-eligible player among the Orioles' 12 to come to terms before the MLB's deadline earlier this month. Despite Mateo being the only one without a finalized salary heading into the deadline, both the player and the team avoided the often-contentious arbitration process, which can sometimes cause tension between players and management.
This contract comes at an interesting time for Mateo, who has been a part of the Orioles since 2021. Known for his speed on the basepaths, Mateo is one of the fastest players in all of Major League Baseball. The 29-year-old has had his ups and downs over the years, but his defensive prowess, particularly as a shortstop, has kept him as a valuable piece of the Orioles' puzzle. His stellar defensive performance in 2022 earned him recognition, but offensively, he has struggled to find consistency. Despite this, he has proven to be a reliable role player, especially in a pinch, and his versatility makes him even more valuable.
After missing the second half of the 2024 season due to a dislocated elbow that required surgery, Mateo is expected to be ready for Opening Day 2025. His return to the field is a big deal for the Orioles, who will likely use him as a super utility player. Although Mateo spent significant time as Baltimore’s starting second baseman last year, that position may be up for grabs in 2025, with top prospect Jackson Holliday expected to take over. Mateo’s ability to cover both the outfield and middle infield gives the Orioles immense flexibility. Manager Brandon Hyde will likely utilize Mateo in late-game situations to bolster his defense, especially given the speed Mateo brings to the table.
The Orioles’ decision to secure Mateo for the 2025 season comes as part of their ongoing roster development. The team is one of the youngest in Major League Baseball, and in addition to Mateo, they’ve brought back several key players through arbitration for the upcoming season. These include star outfielder Cedric Mullins, catcher Adley Rutschman, pitchers like Gregory Soto and Keegan Akin, and infielders such as Emmanuel Rivera and Ryan Mountcastle. These moves are crucial as the team looks to continue building a competitive roster while managing its payroll effectively.
In total, the Orioles are set to pay $45.5 million in salary for their arbitration-eligible players in 2025, a notable increase from last year’s total of $27.6 million. This jump of $17.9 million reflects the team's maturing talent pool. The Orioles are no longer relying solely on cheap, young talent to fill out their roster. Instead, they’re making calculated moves to lock in important players for the future, like Mateo, while keeping their payroll manageable.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Orioles’ 2025 payroll is that it won’t be as heavily reliant on arbitration-eligible players. Last year, players like Corbin Burnes, Anthony Santander, and Austin Hays were among the highest-paid members of the roster. However, in 2025, the Orioles will be featuring a different look at the top of their payroll. High-profile acquisitions such as Zach Eflin, Tyler O’Neill, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano will help fill the gap left by departing players. Eflin, in particular, is expected to make an impact with his $18 million salary, bringing a level of experience and stability to the pitching staff that the Orioles have been missing.
With the 2025 season fast approaching, the Orioles have managed to build a roster that blends experience with the exciting, youthful talent they’ve developed. Mateo, as one of the most versatile players on the team, will play a key role in this equation. His continued presence in the lineup will give the Orioles a dynamic option for late-game substitutions, as well as someone who can step up when needed, whether in the outfield, infield, or as a pinch runner.
It’s also worth noting that Mateo’s deal, which includes a club option for 2026, could potentially extend his time with the Orioles even longer, should the team decide to pick it up. This flexibility is key for the Orioles as they navigate the coming years and continue to assess their roster’s needs. While Mateo’s offensive numbers may not always pop off the page, his defense, speed, and ability to contribute in a variety of roles will remain vital assets for the team.
As the Orioles continue to make strategic moves and manage their payroll, the return of Mateo represents both a short-term and long-term commitment to improving the team. The Orioles are positioning themselves for success in 2025 and beyond, and having reliable players like Mateo on the roster will only help them in their quest for postseason glory. For fans of the team, this deal signifies not just a continuation of their exciting young core, but also the depth and versatility they need to compete at the highest level. The future of the Orioles is looking brighter than ever, and Mateo is an integral part of that vision.
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