The Baltimore Orioles recently signed veteran second baseman-left fielder Tony Kemp to a major league contract reportedly worth $1 million, just one week after he was released from a minor league deal with the Cincinnati Reds. Orioles general manager Mike Elias stated that the team would remain flexible in adding to the roster between spring training and Opening Day. Kemp, who has played in parts of eight major league seasons, primarily at second base and left field, is likely to be on the Opening Day roster as he does not have a minor league option.
Kemp spent the last three seasons with the Oakland Athletics, where he had an OPS of .800 in 2021 before dropping to .601 in the 2022 season. The Orioles’ decision to sign Kemp is intriguing given the presence of veteran Kolten Wong and top prospect Jackson Holliday in camp, both of whom are also left-handed batters. The team opted for Kemp, designating utilityman Nick Maton for assignment to make room for him on the 40-man roster. Kemp, originally from Franklin, Tennessee, appeared in eight Cactus League games with the Reds this spring, showcasing impressive statistics.
Selected in the fifth round of the 2013 draft out of Vanderbilt, Kemp made his MLB debut with the Astros in 2016 and spent four seasons with them before joining the Cubs in 2019 and ultimately playing for the A’s over the past four seasons. In the 2022 season, Kemp batted .209 with 13 doubles, three triples, five home runs, and a career-high 15 stolen bases in 124 games. Throughout his career, he has maintained a combined slash line of .238/.325/.352 with 87 doubles, 15 triples, 35 home runs, and 53 stolen bases. The Orioles’ roster now stands at 40 players following the signings of Kemp and the designation of Maton.
Kemp’s addition to the Orioles provides a veteran presence to a team with a young core that reminds him of the championship-winning Astros group he played with from 2016 to 2019. The Orioles’ decision to go with Kemp over other options at second base indicates their confidence in his abilities and experience. Kemp’s versatility in playing multiple positions and his familiarity with Orioles general manager Mike Elias from their time with the Astros likely contributed to the team’s interest in signing him. The Orioles will look to Kemp to provide leadership and depth to their roster as they navigate the upcoming season.
The signing of Kemp represents a strategic move by the Orioles to add depth and experience to their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season. Kemp’s track record in the majors, including his versatility in playing multiple positions and his past success with championship-winning teams, makes him a valuable asset to the team. The Orioles’ decision to designate utilityman Nick Maton for assignment highlights their commitment to strengthening their roster and maximizing their chances of success in the upcoming season. Overall, Kemp’s addition to the team signals a proactive approach by the Orioles in building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
