The Baltimore Orioles have signed former Los Angeles Angels top prospect Jordyn Adams after he was designated for assignment earlier this offseason. Adams, a first-round pick by the Angels in 2018, has agreed to a minor league deal that includes an invitation to the Orioles’ spring training camp. He is expected to start the season with the Orioles’ Triple-A affiliate in Norfolk.
Adams, 25, brings impressive physical attributes, including 98th-percentile sprint speed, the ability to make highlight-reel catches, and notable power at the plate. While his raw talent and athleticism have always stood out, his performance at the plate has been inconsistent. His minor league stats benefited from playing in the hitter-friendly AAA Salt Lake last season, but his brief stints in the majors have been less impressive. In 78 MLB plate appearances over the past two seasons, Adams posted a slash line of .176/.205/.216/.421.
The Orioles hope to refine Adams’ skills and mindset, developing him in a role similar to Christian Pache. Adams has struggled with mental aspects of the game, occasionally making errant throws and overthinking his approach at the plate. However, the Orioles have a track record of developing young, toolsy players, and Adams fits their mold of high-ceiling, projectable athletes.
Adams was designated for assignment by the Angels a month ago, alongside Eric Wagaman, to make roster space for Matthew Lugo and Jack Dashwood. The Angels’ decision to retain Gustavo Campero over Adams surprised many, as Adams is seen as having a significantly higher ceiling. The Angels’ choice suggests they believe Adams won’t realize his potential within their organization. However, a change of scenery could be exactly what Adams needs to fully unlock his talent. If he flourishes with Baltimore, Angels fans might regret the decision to let him go.
