Particle.news
Download on the App Store
5 ARTICLES
·
2w ago

Orioles Acquire Kyle Nicolas From Reds and Option Him to Triple‑A

The low-cost trade gives Baltimore room to try to fix a once-promising right‑hander’s control problems while preserving 40‑man roster flexibility.

Sep 26, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Kyle Nicolas (66) pitches the ball against the Atlanta Braves during the eighth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Image
May 31, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz runs off of the field during the seventh inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
Image

Overview

  • The Reds traded right‑hander Kyle Nicolas to the Baltimore Orioles on June 4, 2026, with Cincinnati receiving cash considerations after designating him for assignment.
  • Baltimore immediately optioned Nicolas to Triple‑A Norfolk and cleared a 40‑man spot by designating right‑hander Eduarniel Núñez for assignment.
  • Nicolas has struggled this season, posting an 8.59 ERA in seven big‑league appearances and a 5.17 ERA with a 20.7% walk rate in 14 Triple‑A outings, highlighting chronic control issues.
  • Nicolas is in his final option season so the Orioles can keep him in the minors for now, but he could later be placed on waivers or DFA'd if repairs do not take hold.
  • The move fits Baltimore’s recent pattern of acquiring low‑cost arms for depth and reclamation work, which gives the club short‑term pitching cover and forces tough roster choices if a player does not show improvement.