Rangers Trade Jonathan Ornelas to Braves for Cash Considerations

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers announced Saturday morning that they have traded infielder Jonathan Ornelas to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for cash considerations.

Ornelas, who was designated for assignment earlier this week, had been claimed from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Braves opted to add him to their roster after already having an opening following another recent move.

At 24 years old, Ornelas is a former third-round pick in the 2018 MLB Draft. Over the past three years, he has seen action in 30 Major League games, although he has never appeared in more than 18 games in a single season.

Poor offense has plagued Ornelas during his stints in the majors, as he has posted a career batting average of just .184, with no home runs in 54 plate appearances. This season, he has played four games for the Rangers, going hitless with three strikeouts.

Ornelas has spent much of his time at Triple-A Round Rock this season, where he batted .204 with a .574 OPS in 121 plate appearances. His minor league career, however, has shown more promise, with a lifetime .266 batting average and a .725 OPS across various levels.

The Braves designated Orlando Arcia for assignment earlier in the week, creating a vacancy for a backup infielder. Ornelas will provide depth in the infield as the Braves continue their season.

With this trade, the Rangers move on from a prospect who was once considered a top player in their farm system. Fans will now closely follow Ornelas’ career in Atlanta to see if he can find greater success.