Rockies trade for Orioles reliever Mychal Givens

With the trade deadline rapidly approaching, the Rockies made their first trade on Sunday afternoon. Jon Heyman first announced that they had traded for Orioles right-hander Mychal Givens.

It was later revealed that they had given up infielders Tyler Nevin and Terrin Vavra — two of their top prospects in addition to a player to be named later or cash considerations — to acquire Givens.

Givens, 30, was drafted as a shortstop in the second round (54th overall) of the 2009 draft by the Orioles. He was then converted to a pitcher. He made his major league debut on June 24, 2015, against the Boston Red Sox — pitching one perfect inning that included a strikeout.

Givens has pitched 336 total innings in 296 games for the Orioles since 2015, and has a career ERA of 3.32. In 2019, he recorded 11 saves in 19 opportunities. So far in 2020, he has pitched 13 innings and has only allowed two earned runs for an ERA of 1.38. His 2020 WHIP sits right at 1.000. He has a career ERA of 3.32.

While his current role is unknown, it is possible that Givens was acquired to fill a late-inning (potentially a setup or closer) role. He also has one year left before reaching free agency.

In return, the Rockies will send to the Orioles Tyler Nevin, Terrin Vavra, and a player to be named later.

Nevin (No. 10 PuRP), was drafted 38th by the Rockies in 2015. The corner infielder/outfielder has dealt with injuries, and while he has shown plate discipline, he has struggled to hit with power.

Vavra (No. 7 PuRP) was drafted by the Rockies in the third round of the 2018 draft. The infielder has been productive at the plate and was moving quickly through the Rockies’ system. Jeff Aberle referred to Vavra as “slower Garrett Hampson and/or a better Pat Valaika.” It’s a fitting comparison given that Valaika is already with the Orioles.

Purple Row will continue to monitor and provide updates on any Rockies moves ahead of Monday’s trade deadline.