First baseman Travis Ishikawa, who was designated for assignment on June 29, was claimed by the New York Yankees on waivers Sunday afternoon.
Ishikawa, 29, had two hits in 17 at-bats in his brief time with the Orioles. He had batted .316 with a .413 on-base percentage in 49 games with the Triple-A Norfolk Tides.
Signed to a minor league deal, Ishikawa had an opt-out clause after June 15 if he weren't promoted. He exercised it, and the Orioles promoted him. But within 10 days, he was off the roster to make room for Jair Jurrjens in the bullpen.
The Yankees have been looking at help at first base with Mark Teixeira lost for the year. Veteran Lyle Overbay has been playing there and outfielder/designated hitter Vernon Wells has taken grounders there in preparation to play at first if needed.
The Orioles were hoping to deal Ishikawa – or at the very least keep him away from the Yankees – but ultimately they had to put him on waivers and he was claimed by the division rival.
Ishikawa, a left-handed hitter, has hit 260 in parts of six seasons in the majors.