The Baltimore Orioles yesterday claimed Travis Lakins off of waivers from the Chicago Cubs. Larkins is a right-handed relief pitcher. I would expect him to compete for a bullpen job this spring.
Unfortunately for the O’s, this move came at a price. They had to designate utilityman Stevie Wilkerson for assignment. Now with that said, he could certainly remain with the organization if he clears waivers. He would need to do that, and then accept a minor league assignment.
And that’s exactly what happened last season. Whether it would happen again in 2020 is another story. Wilkerson happily did everything and anything that was asked of him last year. He played almost every position, including spot reliever. And on the final day of the season he made a dramatic catch in the grandstand at Fenway Park that made a late case for catch of the year.
Notice I said in the grandstand at Fenway Park. He threw his body all out to make the play. He’s a good guy to have on your roster, and one I’m sure that the Orioles would welcome back with open arms if they have the opportunity. But first thing’s first – he has to clear waivers.
As for Lakins, as I said I suspect he’ll have the opportunity to compete for a bullpen role. You can never have too much pitching for sure, however this comes at a price, as I said. Hopefully it works out.
Birdland Crush 