Alfredo Aceves reportedly signs Minor League contract with Baltimore Orioles

At one point during the 2011 season, it looked as if right-hander Alfredo Aceves could re-revolutionize the “hybrid” pitching position between long reliever and emergency starter. After all, he posted a very positive 2.61 ERA in 114 innings despite making just 4 starts, and in today’s MLB, that is virtually unheard of.

Well, the wheels have come off a bit for Aceves in recent seasons, and despite earning a World Series ring with the Boston Red Sox in 2013, he’s been forced to go elsewhere for employment in 2014, and it looks as if he’s latched on with a division rival.

Multiple outlets, including ESPN’s Buster Olney and FOX’s Ken Rosenthal, are reporting that the 31-year-old Aceves has signed on with the Baltimore Orioles, and while it is a Minor League deal by nature, he’ll be given every opportunity to earn a roster spot. In 2013, Aceves wasn’t very effective, putting up a 4.86 ERA (6.35 FIP) over 11 appearances (6 starts) with Boston, but he does have a unique arm that could be valuable in a long relief role.

In addition to the deal “breaking”, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reports that Aceves will be guaranteed $1.2 million for making the team, shedding some light on why he selected the Orioles over other potential suitors. The 2013 edition of the Orioles struggled to a 4.20 ERA as a staff (23rd in MLB), and it never hurts to have more quality arms at a team’s disposal, and the fit appears to be a good one.

It remains to be seen if Aceves can latch on for a full-time role, but he’s certainly worth a low-risk flyer with some upside.