Left-hander Cole Irvin, whom the Orioles designated for assignment last week, has been claimed off waivers by a fellow American League contender, the Minnesota Twins.
Irvin was a versatile lefty out of the bullpen or in the starting rotation, although he was inconsistent during his two years in Baltimore. Irvin held a 4.68 ERA across 49 appearances with 28 starts in two seasons.
He was one of Baltimore’s first buy-side trades as the rebuild gave way to a contending mindset, when general manager Mike Elias sent infield prospect Darell Hernáiz to the Oakland Athletics for Irvin and minor league right-hander Kyle Virbitsky.
But the trade didn’t solidify the back-end of the rotation like Baltimore would’ve hoped. After just three starts in 2023, Irvin was optioned to the minor leagues. Since then, Irvin served as a depth piece. He was at his best early this season when he strung together five straight starts with two runs or fewer against him. In that span of 30 1/3 innings, Irvin allowed just four runs.
But soon after, Irvin returned to the bullpen. And when he received further starting opportunities this year, the results were mixed.
The Orioles designated Irvin for assignment last week to make room for right-hander Jacob Webb on the active roster. It was the second time Irvin was designated, although he passed through waivers in July before an August return.
The 30-year-old covered 107 1/3 innings this season in Baltimore. He could pitch against the Orioles soon, with the Twins and Orioles set to face off during the final series of the regular season.
Irvin was known for his work in the Baltimore community. Recently, Irvin and his wife, Kristen Beat, donated bikes to Walter P. Carter Elementary/Middle School in the city. Irvin also channeled his and his wife’s passion for animals to raise money for the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter when there was a hoarding case in May.
