Mateo, one of MLB’s fastest players, joined the Orioles in 2021 as a former top prospect seeking to establish himself in the big leagues. He was one of the best defensive shortstops in 2022 and has been a relied-upon role player — despite his offensive struggles — over the past two seasons.

The Orioles have successfully avoided all potential arbitration hearings this offseason, having now settled with all of their eligible players. On Tuesday, Baltimore announced that it agreed to terms with infielder/outfielder Jorge Mateo on a 2025 contract that includes an option for the '26 season.

The Orioles announced that they’ve agreed to a deal with utilityman Jorge Mateo to avoid arbitration. It’s a one-year contract that comes with a club option for 2026.

The Orioles won’t have any players going to arbitration hearings after settling on a 2025 contract with an option for 2026 with infielder/outfielder Jorge Mateo. Mateo, who missed nearly the entire second half of the season with a left elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery in August,

There’s no indication that the injury will affect Mateo’s readiness for the start of next season. Baltimore was confident enough in his health to keep him around. He’ll join Ramón Urías and new backup catcher Gary Sánchez as locks for Brandon Hyde’s bench so long as he’s healthy.