The Orioles signed veteran utilityman Tony Kemp to a major league contract on Tuesday. Kemp, who was released by Cincinnati on March 19th, has hit .238 in eight seasons with Houston, the Chicago Cubs and Oakland.

A 32-year-old left-handed hitter, Kemp has played mostly left field and second base, though he’s also played some center field.

In 2023, Kemp hit .209 with five home runs and 27 RBIs. He stole a career-high 15 bases in 19 attempts. Last season, he walked four more times than he struck out (44/40).

Kemp hit .333 (7-for-21) with a home run and five RBIs in eight Cactus League games with the Reds this spring.

To make room for Kemp on the 40-man roster, the Orioles designated infielder/outfielder Nick Maton for assignment. Maton was hitless in 23 at-bats this spring.