As expected, the Orioles declined the $16.5 million option on designated hitter Eloy Jiménez on Saturday. Jiménez, who was acquired on July 30th from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for minor league reliever Trey McGough, was concluding a six-year, $43 million contract.
The Orioles must pay the 27-year-old Jiménez a $3 million buyout.
In 33 games with the Orioles, Jiménez hit .233 with a home run and seven RBIs. In September, Jiménez, who was exclusively a DH for the Orioles, hit .042 (1-for-24).
The Orioles still have decisions to make by Tuesday on four other players. They hold options for 2025 on left-handed relievers Danny Coulombe ($4 million), Cionel Pérez ($2.2 million), right-hander Seranthony Domínguez ($8 million) and first baseman/designated hitter Ryan O’Hearn ($7.5 million).
Jiménez’s removal from the 40-man roster leaves the Orioles with 32 players.