Orioles re-sign Albert Suarez to minor-league contract

The Baltimore Orioles have brought back right-hander Albert Suarez on another minor-league contract, continuing an insane cycle that has defined the veteran pitcher’s 2026 season. Suarez signed with Baltimore on Thursday after electing free agency three days earlier following his fourth designation for assignment of the year.

The 36-year-old has repeatedly moved between the Orioles and Triple-A Norfolk throughout the season. Baltimore initially signed him to a minor-league deal in December after he became a free agent following the 2025 campaign. The Orioles selected his contract on April 1, but designated him for assignment on April 26. After clearing waivers, Suarez became a free agent April 29 and signed another minor-league deal the following day.

That cycle continued in May. Baltimore selected his contract again May 1 before designating him for assignment May 2. He cleared waivers and accepted an outright assignment to Norfolk on May 4, only for the Orioles to bring him back to the majors May 19. After another DFA on May 25, Suarez elected free agency May 28 and returned on a major-league contract May 29.

The latest sequence began Aug. 21, when Baltimore designated him for assignment. Suarez cleared waivers and elected free agency Aug. 24 before rejoining the organization on Aug. 27.

Suarez has proven his value to the Orioles with his performance on the mound. He has logged 55 innings over 25 major-league appearances this season, recording a 3.93 ERA while posting a 16.5% strikeout rate. He has primarily worked as a long reliever and has not pitched more than two innings in an MLB outing since early July.

The veteran has also made two appearances for Norfolk this season, starting both, although neither outing extended beyond two innings.

His history with Baltimore adds further context to the decision to keep him around. In 2024, Suarez made 32 appearances and 24 starts, finishing with a 3.70 ERA across 133 2/3 innings. Injuries limited him to only 11 2/3 major-league innings in 2025.

The repeated free-agent moves also provide a roster-rule benefit. After a pitcher is optioned or outrighted to the minors, MLB rules impose a 15-day waiting period before he can normally be recalled unless replacing an injured player. A new contract allows Suarez to return sooner if the Orioles need him.

His latest minor-league agreement also includes improved financial terms compared with his December contract and an upward mobility clause, giving Suarez additional control over his future.

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