The Baltimore Orioles were forced into an unusual defensive adjustment Monday night after Blaze Alexander exited their game against the Los Angeles Angels with apparent right knee discomfort.
The move highlighted the Orioles’ limited infield options as the club navigated multiple injury-related absences during the series opener at Angel Stadium. MLB.com’s Jake Rill reported on X, formerly Twitter, that Alexander’s departure led to outfielder Leody Taveras moving to third base, marking the first infield appearance of his professional career.
“Blaze Alexander was removed from the game due to injury, and Leody Taveras is now playing infield for the first time in his seven-year career”
Blaze Alexander was removed from the game due to injury and Leody Taveras is now playing infield for the first time in his seven-year career pic.twitter.com/y1UfJePEfw
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) June 23, 2026
Alexander’s injury occurred during a plate appearance in the second inning when he fouled a ball off his leg. Although he finished the at-bat, he later exited the game with what was identified as right knee discomfort.
His departure created a difficult situation for interim Craig Albernaz. Jackson Holliday was already unavailable for a second straight game because of groin tightness, while Coby Mayo was serving as the designated hitter. Moving Mayo into the field would have cost the Orioles their designated hitter spot for the remainder of the game under MLB rules.
Baltimore also lacked a traditional infield replacement on their active bench. Infielder Luis Vazquez was present with the club but remained on the taxi squad and was not available to enter the game.
His first test came immediately in the bottom of the third inning when Angels outfielder Jose Siri hit a ground ball directly toward him. Taveras fielded the ball cleanly and recorded his first career infield assist.
As of Monday night, the 27-year-old infielder was scheduled for diagnostic imaging, with Baltimore holding a 6-0 lead in the top of the ninth inning against the Angels.
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