Orioles seemingly cut ties with former Rangers top catching prospect amid Adley Rutschman news

The Baltimore Orioles made an announcement regarding two catchers on Tuesday. 

First, Adley Rutschman, who missed time due to an ankle injury, was reinstated from the 10-day injured list. 

In a corresponding move, Sam Huff, a former top prospect with the Texas Rangers, was designated for assignment. The 28-year-old signed a minor league contract with the Orioles in January and collected two hits in nine trips to the plate with Baltimore. 

Huff was promoted to serve as the acting backup catcher while Rutschman was out. Ahead of him on the depth chart was the left-handed hitting Samuel Basallo. 

In his first five seasons in the Majors, Huff hit 12 home runs, including two longballs with the San Francisco Giants in 2025. His .726 OPS is respectable for someone who hasn't received a lot of playing time. 

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The Orioles can retain Huff and send him to Triple-A if he clears waivers. Otherwise, the AL East club can facilitate a trade. 

Rutschman, a two-time All-Star, is searching to regain momentum at the plate after an injury-riddled and down year offensively in 2025. In 10 games before his injury, the former first overall pick hit .294/.385/.471 with six doubles, leading to a .855 OPS. 

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