Thyago Vieira becomes 1st Brazilian Oriole

BALTIMORE-The Orioles activated right-handed pitcher Thyago Vieira for Monday’s game against the Boston Red Sox. They optioned left-hander Nick Vespi to Triple-A Norfolk. Vieira is one of only five Brazilians to play in the major leagues and the first Oriole.

“I’m really happy and really excited to join these guys right now,” Vieira said. “When I received the news, I was so happy because this team is winning. They’re young kids. They’re hungry. They want to play well, hustle every single day.”

The Orioles acquired the 31-year-old Vieira from Milwaukee on Saturday along with minor league right-hander Aneuris Rodriguez, 19, for minor league right-hander Garrett Stallings.

Vieira had a 5.64 earned-run average in 16 games with the Brewers.

“I feel I can help a lot,” Vieira said. “I can bring a lot of emotional energy, try to help the team in any kind of spot they need. I know I’m ready for this. I’ve worked for this. They picked me up because they believe in me, and I believe in myself, too. So, now we’re together on the same page, just have to impress with my stuff, impress the team and then we’ll be in a good spot.”

Vieira pitched two scoreless innings against the Orioles in Baltimore on April 11th, allowing one hit.

“Don’t know a ton about him,” manager Brandon Hyde said “We’ve seen him a couple of times with Milwaukee. He’s a huge arm. We’re always looking for stuff, stuff guys in our bullpen, and he has that. We’re going to see what we got.”

“