Baltimore was unable to find a trade partner after designating Valencia for assignment Friday, so he will now hit the free-agent market. Across 79 games this year, Valencia slashed .263/.316/.408 with nine home runs and 28 RBI. The 33-year-old has the ability to provide value at the plate, though the rebuilding Orioles were unwilling to give him at-bats in lieu of their younger players. He will look to latch on with a new organization for the homestretch of the 2018 season.

Valencia has started only four of the last 10 games so it's relatively easy to see why the Orioles would make the move, despite his .325 average since the All-Star break. Outfielder Cedric Mullins joins Baltimore from Triple-A Norfolk for his first taste of the majors.

The Orioles have included Valencia in the lineup in only two of their past six games with Renato Nunez taking over as the club's primary third baseman. Valencia's ability to slot in at DH or at one of the corner-outfield spots should still help him pick up occasional starts, but the rebuilding Orioles aren't committed to giving a 33-year-old on an expiring contract consistent at-bats.

Valencia will remain on the bench for a second straight game while Renato Nunez gets another start at third base. Across 76 games this year, Valencia is hitting .270/.322/.422 with nine home runs and 28 RBI.