The Orioles announced that they have acquired catcher Francisco Pena from the Royals in exchange for cash considerations and designated infielder Paul Janish for assignment in order to clear room on the 40-man roster.
Pena, 26, is the son of former Major League catcher Tony Pena. He picked up seven plate appearances with the Royals this past season — the first seven he’s seen in the big leagues — and collected a single in that brief cup of coffee. Pena spent the bulk of the season at Triple-A Omaha, where he’s played since 2014, and batted .251/.305/.430 with 13 homers. He’ll replace some of the depth that the Orioles lost when they traded Steve Clevenger to the Mariners earlier today.
Janish, 33, is a well-traveled veteran known for outstanding infield defense but a light bat. He hit .286/.278/.381 in 14 games with Baltimore this season and is a career .216/.284/.291 hitter at the Major League level. He can elect free agency upon clearing outright waivers and should draw interest from multiple clubs as an infield depth option due to his veteran status and defensive prowess.
Finally a chance to play!!!
Janish had several amazing web gems in his time with the Orioles. He is an OUTSTANDING defender. And he hit well with Baltimore as well. I felt sure he’d stick.
Whoever picks him up will get a winner.