Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
The Baltimore Orioles are facing significant challenges as their pitching staff has been hit hard by injuries. The latest blow comes with the news that Kyle Bradish will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. This development comes at a critical time for the Orioles, who are vying for a playoff spot. Bradish's absence is a substantial loss for the team and adds to a growing list of injured pitchers.
Elbow Surgeries and Strained Triceps
The Orioles' pitching woes don't stop with Bradish. John Means and Tyler Wells have also undergone elbow surgeries, sidelining them for the foreseeable future. Additionally, Dean Kremer is dealing with a strained triceps, further depleting the rotation. Despite these injuries, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation, a testament to their depth and resilience.
Current Rotation and Performance
Even with these significant setbacks, the Orioles have managed to piece together a formidable rotation. The current rotation includes Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Impressively, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, a remarkable achievement given the circumstances.
Albert Suárez has been a standout performer within the rotation, providing much-needed stability and quality innings. His contributions have been pivotal in keeping the Orioles competitive despite the numerous injuries.
Potential Trade Candidates
Given the injuries to their pitching staff, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades. Several pitchers could be potential trade targets for the team:
- Jesús Luzardo: Luzardo has been impressive since 2022, posting an ERA+ of 118. His performance makes him an attractive option for the Orioles.
- Paul Blackburn: Blackburn is recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot. Despite his injury, he has been a league-average starter since 2022.
- Tyler Anderson: Anderson is owed over $20 million through next season, which could be a consideration for the Orioles in terms of financial commitment.
- Erick Fedde: Fedde's recent performance could make him an enticing option for bolstering the rotation.
- Nick Martinez: Martinez has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen and has a $12 million player option for next year.
- Austin Gomber: Gomber offers another year of team control after this season, adding to his appeal as a trade candidate.
- Cal Quantrill: Quantrill also comes with another year of team control, which could be beneficial for the Orioles.
- Reid Detmers: Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics but has struggled with his ERA, making him a potential high-risk, high-reward option.
- Braxton Garrett: Garrett has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances starting from 2022 but has dealt with a shoulder impingement.
- Garrett Crochet: Crochet possesses a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, a cutter, and a slider. He has an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Exploring these trade options could be crucial for the Orioles as they aim to maintain their competitive edge. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete for a playoff spot.
Looking Ahead
As the Orioles navigate through this challenging period, the resilience and performance of their remaining pitchers will be vital. While the injuries have undoubtedly tested the team's depth, the potential to add new talent through trades offers hope. The front office's ability to identify and acquire the right pitchers could be the key to sustaining their success through the remainder of the season.
In conclusion, while the loss of Kyle Bradish and the other injured pitchers is a significant setback, the Orioles have shown remarkable grit and adaptability. By potentially adding reinforcements through trades and continuing to rely on strong performances from their current rotation, they can remain competitive and continue their pursuit of a postseason berth.