Jackson Kowar: Everything you need to know

Kowar cleared waivers Thursday and was sent outright to Triple-A Norfolk, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. Kowar lost his place on the 40-man roster Wednesday after giving up three runs (one earned) over six innings during spring training, but he'll remain within the Orioles organization after passing through waivers unclaimed. The 29-year-old posted a 2.57 ERA over 14 frames in Triple-A last year and could work his way back into the majors if he performs similarly in 2026.

The Orioles designated Kowar for assignment Wednesday. Kowar was unable to win a spot in the Orioles' Opening Day bullpen after yielding three runs (one earned) on five hits and four walks across six innings during the Grapefruit League. The 29-year-old righty will now be exposed to waivers but could remain in the organization as relief depth at Triple-A Norfolk if he doesn't get claimed.

Kowar (shoulder) made his Grapefruit League debut in Thursday's 6-5 win over the Tigers, issuing one walk and allowing no hits over a scoreless inning of relief. Kowar looks to be back to full health after he spent the final month of the 2025 season on the Mariners' injured list due to a right shoulder impingement. After Seattle waived Kowar in January, he caught on with the Twins before being traded to the Orioles less than two weeks later. The right-hander will be competing for a spot in Baltimore's Opening Day bullpen this spring.