Scouting Report: Christian Roa

Summary

Christian Roa, a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher, has been designated for assignment multiple times in 2026 (by Twins on May 6, claimed by Orioles on May 10, then DFA'd by Orioles on May 15). Originally a 2020 first-round pick (No. 48 overall) by the Reds, Roa has struggled significantly in his limited MLB appearances. In 2026, he posted a 5.19 ERA in 8⅔ innings with the Astros, walking more batters than he struck out. His career MLB record spans 11⅔ innings across the Marlins and Astros with a 3.86 ERA. While he shows decent stuff with mid-90s fastball velocity and a plus slider, his command issues (14% walk rate in Triple-A) and poor strikeout-to-walk ratio have hindered his development. He had some minor league success in 2025 with a 2.83 ERA in 60⅓ innings.