Detroit Tigers’ infielder Nick Maton, recently designated for assignment, has now been traded to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for cash. This marks the Orioles’ second acquisition from the Tigers in as many weeks, following their earlier cash deal for infielder Tyler Nevin.
Maton, who will turn 27 soon, began the 2023 season as the Tigers’ starting third baseman but struggled both offensively and defensively, leading to his demotion to Triple-A Toledo in June. Despite returning to the club later on, he couldn’t secure a regular spot in the lineup.
With Maton being out of options, the Tigers had to decide whether to include him in their 2024 Opening Day roster or remove him from the 40-man roster. They chose the latter, placing him on waivers a week before spring training, ultimately replacing him with lefty Kolton Ingram, claimed from the Los Angeles Angels.
The Orioles’ intentions for both Maton and Nevin, neither of whom have a clear path to the Opening Day roster, remain uncertain. Like Maton, Nevin is also out of options, meaning he can’t be sent down to the minors without passing through waivers.
Maton was acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies over a year ago in a trade that also involved infielder/outfielder Matt Vierling and catcher Donny Sands in exchange for reliever Gregory Soto. While Sands has also been designated for assignment this winter, Vierling is expected to start the 2024 season as the Tigers’ primary third baseman.
Maton started the season 2-for-22 and then strung together a couple of good games, including this one, probably the high point of his Tigers' tenure… https://t.co/0muFkj8WrS
— Evan Woodbery (@evanwoodbery) February 8, 2024
Having performed well in a backup role for the Phillies, including during their 2022 National League championship run, the trade to Detroit provided Maton with an opportunity for regular playing time. Despite promising moments with the Triple-A Toledo team, he struggled in the majors, batting just .173 with a .593 OPS in 293 plate appearances, while also receiving below-average defensive ratings.
Maton underwent a left knee procedure during the offseason to address discomfort but was anticipated to be ready for spring training.
