Orioles Sign Veteran Estrada to Minor League Deal After Westburg Injury

The move adds infield depth for Baltimore with third baseman Jordan Westburg out at least through April.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Baltimore Orioles have signed veteran infielder Thairo Estrada to a minor league deal, a move that adds depth to their infield after third baseman Jordan Westburg was sidelined with an elbow injury that will keep him out at least through April.

Why it matters

The Orioles are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and need to fill the void left by Westburg's injury. Estrada provides experienced infield depth and versatility, having played multiple positions in his MLB career.

The details

Estrada, 30, hit .253 in 39 games for the Colorado Rockies last season. He has previous MLB experience with the New York Yankees and San Francisco Giants, setting career highs with 14 home runs in 2022 and 2023. Estrada has played second base, shortstop, third base, and the outfield during his career.

  • Estrada's $7 million mutual option for 2026 was declined by the Rockies on November 3, 2025.
  • Westburg is expected to be out at least through April 2026 with an elbow injury.

The players

Thairo Estrada

A 30-year-old veteran infielder who has played for the New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants, and Colorado Rockies in his MLB career.

Jordan Westburg

The Orioles' starting third baseman who is sidelined at least through April 2026 with an elbow injury.

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What they’re saying

“The Baltimore Orioles signed veteran Thairo Estrada to a minor league deal on Monday in a move that adds infield depth with third baseman Jordan Westburg out at least through April with an elbow injury.”

— Associated Press (sfgate.com)

What’s next

The Orioles will evaluate Estrada's performance in spring training as they look to fill the void left by Westburg's injury and build depth for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

This move demonstrates the Orioles' proactive approach to addressing roster needs and maintaining competitive depth, even when faced with key player injuries during the offseason.