Alfredo Aceves is bringing his versatility and unique personality to the Baltimore Orioles.
Aceves has signed a minor league contract with the Orioles that also includes an invitation to spring training, according to MLB Trade Rumors’ Tim Dierkes. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reports that Aceves is guaranteed $1.2 million if he makes Baltimore’s major league roster but has a chance to earn as much as $3 million based on incentives.
Dierkes suggests that Aceves could start or pitch out of the bullpen, which makes sense given the right-hander’s track record. Aceves, who was outrighted off the Boston Red Sox’ 40-man roster in July, was extremely versatile during his three-year stint with the club, although most of his work came in relief. Aceves served as the Red Sox’ closer during the team’s disastrous 2012 season.
Aceves’ production has been up and down in recent years. The 31-year-old went 10-2 with a 2.61 ERA in 55 appearances (four starts) with the Red Sox in 2011 but followed up the strong campaign by going 2-10 with a 5.36 ERA in 69 appearances in 2012. Aceves went 4-1 with a 4.86 ERA in 11 appearances (six starts) last season before being shown the door.
The risk with Aceves — other than his rollercoaster effectiveness — is his rather bizarre demeanor. Aceves often has made headlines for reasons beyond the box score.
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