The Baltimore Orioles have added Jhonkensy Noel to the active roster.
The Baltimore Orioles made a depth move on Monday, claiming right-handed slugger Jhonkensy Noel from the Cleveland Guardians. In a corresponding transaction, right-hander George Soriano was designated for assignment to create space on the 40-man roster.
New Orioles manager Craig Albernaz has a connection with Noel, as the two reunite in Baltimore. Albernaz previously served as bench coach during Noel’s two-year stint with the Guardians, giving him familiarity with the young player’s skill set and potential.
The 24-year-old changes organizations for the first time since signing with Cleveland as an international prospect in 2017. His profile is built around raw power, but his approach at the plate has been a concern.
In 351 major-league plate appearances, Noel has launched 19 home runs, yet his 4.8% walk rate and 32.8% strikeout rate have produced a lopsided .193/.242/.401 slash line. Those struggles ultimately led to him being designated for assignment in December when Cleveland acquired left-hander Justin Bruihl from the Toronto Blue Jays.
Baltimore’s decision to claim Noel reflects the club’s aggressive approach to waiver-wire transactions. The Orioles often take chances on players with upside, hoping to sneak them through waivers later and retain them as non-roster depth.
Noel faces a steep path to playing time, as Baltimore’s roster already features a crowded mix of right-handed power bats including Pete Alonso, Coby Mayo, Ryan Mountcastle, Taylor Ward and Tyler O’Neill.
The outfield corners and designated hitter spots are similarly packed, with Colton Cowser, Dylan Beavers, Leody Taveras, Heston Kjerstad and other young players competing for at-bats.
Still, Noel’s minor-league production offers reason for intrigue. Over 268 games at the Triple-A level, he has posted a .250 batting average,.323 on-base percentage, .796 OPS, 57 home runs and 183 RBIs. His strikeout and walk rates were more manageable at that level, suggesting he could provide value if given another opportunity. Out of options, Noel must stick on the active roster or risk being exposed to waivers again.
Soriano, meanwhile, exits Baltimore without making an appearance for the organization. The 27-year-old right-hander was claimed from the Miami Marlins in November after posting an 8.35 ERA across 24 appearances. He showed promise in Triple-A last season with a 2.32 ERA, making him a candidate to be claimed by another club and earn another opportunity.
For the Orioles, the move represents another attempt to add controllable depth while balancing a roster already built to contend in 2026.