Orioles Acquire Infielder/Outfielder Nick Maton from Tigers
The Baltimore Orioles have officially acquired infielder/outfielder Nick Maton from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for cash considerations. Maton, 26, adds versatility and depth to the Orioles’ roster with his experience playing multiple positions.
**Maton’s Performance in Detroit**
Maton (pronounced MAY-tahn) spent last season with the Tigers, where he played in 93 games and hit .173/.288/.305 with nine doubles, eight home runs, 29 runs scored, 32 RBI, 38 walks, and one stolen base. Despite his struggles at the plate, Maton showed flashes of power and patience, highlighted by his first career walk-off home run on April 14 against the San Francisco Giants. In the 11th inning of that game, Maton launched a three-run homer off Camilo Doval with the Tigers down by one, marking a standout moment in his season.
Maton made the Opening Day roster for the first time in his career and had two stints with Detroit during the 2023 season. Over his MLB career, which began in 2021, Maton has appeared in 180 games, playing for both the Phillies and Tigers. He was also part of the Philadelphia Phillies’ World Series roster in 2022, gaining valuable postseason experience against the Houston Astros.
**Success in Triple-A Toledo**
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While Maton’s major league numbers were modest, he excelled during his time with Triple-A Toledo in 2023. In 38 games with the Mud Hens, Maton batted an impressive .293/.414/.457 with 12 doubles, one triple, three home runs, 32 runs scored, 27 RBI, 27 walks, and three stolen bases. He made headlines on September 6 when he hit for the cycle against Indianapolis, going 5-for-5 with two doubles, a triple, a home run, two runs scored, and four RBI, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively when in a groove.
**Career Path and Trade History**
Maton’s journey to the Orioles has been marked by a series of trades and roster moves. He was originally drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the seventh round of the 2017 MLB Draft out of Lincoln Land Community College in Illinois. In January 2023, he was traded to the Tigers along with catcher Donny Sands and infielder/outfielder Matt Vierling in exchange for infielder/outfielder Kody Clemens and left-handed pitcher Gregory Soto. The trade was part of a larger effort by both teams to reshape their rosters and address specific needs.
Maton’s background includes not just his versatility on the field but also a strong baseball pedigree. His brother, Phil Maton, is a right-handed pitcher who has spent seven seasons in the major leagues, most recently with the Houston Astros from 2021-2023.
**What Maton Brings to the Orioles**
With his ability to play multiple positions both in the infield and outfield, Maton brings added flexibility to the Orioles. His major league experience, combined with his recent success at the Triple-A level, suggests he has the potential to make a positive impact in Baltimore. The Orioles will be looking to tap into Maton’s versatility and find ways to leverage his skills as they continue to build a competitive roster.
Maton’s acquisition reflects the Orioles’ strategy of adding depth and creating competition within the team, aiming to enhance their lineup as they pursue playoff aspirations in the upcoming season.