On his fourth team in four years, Emmanuel Rivera finally has found a groove, helping to propel a struggling Baltimore Orioles offense.
Unlikely Journeyman Providing Strong Play For The Orioles
Claimed on August 21 by the Orioles via the Miami Marlins, Rivera was slashing .214/.294/.269 in 2024. He had a productive year in 2023, helping the Diamondbacks make the World Series, but was used sparingly in the playoffs. So, when the Orioles claimed him, he was not expected to make a large impact. However, Rivera has been forced into a bigger role due to multiple key injuries in the infield. Despite his poor performance on the Marlins, Rivera has been a sparkplug for the Orioles. In 10 games so far, he has a .890 OPS. Most importantly, he has been extremely versatile in defense. Overall, while the Orioles deal with injuries, they need Rivera to continue to step up.
Rivera’s Oriole Tenure
Rivera’s impact has been felt despite having played in just 10 games. While Rivera has been on the team, both Ramon Urias and Ryan Mountcastle have been placed on the IL. Since they play Rivera’s two primary positions, third and first base, Rivera has been needed even more recently. He has played in 4 out of 5 games so far in September. While with Baltimore, Rivera has slashed .263/.364/.526. That includes two extra-base hits and 5 RBIs.
IT WAS ALWAYS EMMANUEL RIVERA!!! pic.twitter.com/l1Z7NwxcTt
— Zach Bollinger (@zachbollinger18) September 2, 2024
His strong offensive performance has helped carry the Orioles lineup recently, as multiple players battle through prolonged slumps. But Rivera’s defensive ability and versatility have been just as important. Rivera has played wherever he is needed, appearing at third base in 6 games, and first base in 5 games. Plus Rivera is yet to commit an error for the Orioles, highlighting how strong he has been in the field.
Overall, Rivera has been a diamond in the rough find by the Orioles front office, His strong bat and versatility could make him a weapon down the stretch for the Orioles.
Emmanuel Rivera’s Potential Postseason Impact
Heading down the stretch, the Orioles have a lot of infield question marks. All-Star Jordan Westburg still has no timetable to return. According to Manager Brandon Hyde, Mountcastle has not progressed as well as the Orioles would have liked. And, Urias remains on the IL with an ankle sprain, with an unknown timetable. As those three remain out, Rivera will remain one of the top two corner infielders. Against right-handers, Rivera should continue to see starts at third base. But versus left-handers, Rivera will see starts at first base.
If Rivera can continue to have a hot bat, the Orioles will have no choice but to put him on the playoff roster. Although it would probably be a bench role, Rivera would be ready to produce. In the 2023 World Series, Rivera had just 5 plate appearances and went 2-5 with 2 RBIs. That type of timely hitting would be a valuable asset for the Orioles come playoff time.
Rivera will have a big chance to prove himself over the next few weeks. Hopefully, he can help keep the Orioles afloat in the battle for the American League East and become a key contributor in the playoffs.
Main Photo Credits: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
