Gary Sánchez might be a new face in Baltimore, but he’s no stranger to Orioles infielder Jorge Mateo. Their connection dates back to their days as minor leaguers in the New York Yankees system.
Sánchez signed with the Yankees in 2009 as part of their international class, while Mateo followed in 2012. Though their careers took different paths—Mateo was traded to the Athletics in 2017, and Sánchez was already a rising star in New York—the two remained close. They even reunited in the Dominican Winter League during the 2020-21 season, playing for Toros del Este.
When Sánchez became a free agent this offseason, he turned to Mateo for insight. Mateo’s glowing recommendation sealed the deal.
“He just told me, ‘Man, there’s a lot of great people here, a lot of great teammates… a lot of great chemistry here,’” Sánchez said through an interpreter.
The Orioles signed Sánchez primarily as a backup to All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman. However, Sánchez is open to filling multiple roles, including first base or designated hitter, to help the team.
Sánchez’s career has seen highs and lows. Once a Yankees sensation, he earned All-Star honors in 2017 and 2019, belting 33 and 34 home runs in those seasons. In 2016, he finished second in American League Rookie of the Year voting despite playing only 53 games.
In recent years, Sánchez has transitioned into a backup role, playing for the Milwaukee Brewers last season. Over 89 games, he hit .220 with 11 home runs and 37 RBIs. The Brewers declined his 2025 option, making him a free agent.
At 32, Sánchez may no longer be a 30-home run slugger, but his power remains a valuable asset. Averaging 15 homers over the past two seasons, Sánchez brings experience and versatility to a young Orioles team looking to contend.
