Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
The Baltimore Orioles have designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment, marking a significant shift in their bullpen strategy as the season draws closer to its end. This move follows a disappointing series of performances from the 36-year-old pitcher, whose recent struggles have seen his ERA balloon to 5.33 over his last 18 appearances.
Kimbrel, once a formidable force in the ninth inning, has seen his form decline significantly. After allowing six runs on three hits and two walks during a game against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night, the Orioles decided it was time for a change. This season, Kimbrel's performance has deteriorated, with a staggering ERA of 10.59 across his last 17 innings, where he gave up 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks. Despite striking out 20 batters during this span, the results have not been favorable.
A Legendary Career Tarnished
Kimbrel's career achievements are noteworthy. He ranks fifth all-time in saves and is second among active pitchers in this vital statistic. However, this season marks his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, underscoring his recent struggles. Once an anchor of the bullpen and a reliable closer, he was recently removed from the closer's role, leaving Seranthony Domínguez to take over those duties over the past month.
The transition has not been easy for the Orioles, who hold a 26-29 record since the All-Star break. "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months," said Orioles general manager Mike Elias. He admitted that while some of the reasons for their downturn are obvious, there's a broader issue with several players experiencing a downturn in their performance.
Bryan Baker's Opportunity
To fill Kimbrel's spot, the Orioles have promoted 29-year-old right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk. Baker has made 17 appearances at the major league level this season and 130 in his career, boasting an overall ERA+ of 108. His promotion represents a fresh opportunity for the Orioles' bullpen to stabilize and improve as they chase a postseason berth.
With the Orioles four games behind the New York Yankees in the AL East and holding a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race, every game counts. Baker's addition will be crucial in shoring up a bullpen that desperately needs consistency. His major league experience and recent form in Triple-A suggest he could provide the reliability that Baltimore needs.
The Road Ahead
The Orioles' decision to designate Kimbrel for assignment reflects a team willing to make tough decisions in pursuit of postseason success. While Kimbrel's legendary career is undeniable, the team’s immediate needs take precedence. The Orioles' quest to regain their mojo will require contributions from the entire roster, and Bryan Baker's promotion is a step toward getting there.
As the season progresses, the Orioles and their fans will be watching closely to see if these changes can propel the team securely into postseason contention. The struggle to find consistency and performance remains a significant challenge, one that the team must overcome to achieve their goals.
Mike Elias summed it up best: "There are reasons for it that are obvious, but a lot of it is we've got people here that are experiencing a downturn -- whether it's themselves or the team." The next few weeks will be critical for the Orioles as they battle to keep their playoff hopes alive.
