Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
In a significant roster move, the Baltimore Orioles designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment, signaling a shift in the bullpen dynamics. The decision follows a series of underwhelming performances from the 36-year-old pitcher, who conceded six runs on three hits and two walks in a recent outing against the San Francisco Giants. This unraveling has considerably altered Kimbrel's season, as his ERA has ballooned from 2.80 before the All-Star break to a startling 5.33 over his last 18 appearances.
A Struggle on the Mound
Kimbrel, who ranks fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers, has faced a steep decline in form. In the 18 appearances following the All-Star Game, he surrendered 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks. Despite striking out 20 batters in 17 innings during this span, Kimbrel's ERA soared to 10.59. This marked downturn led to his removal from the closer's role, which has since been filled by Seranthony DomÃnguez over the past month.
These struggles are not entirely new for Kimbrel. This season will be his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, underlining a worrying trend for the once-dominant closer.
Enter Bryan Baker
In a corresponding move, the Orioles promoted right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk. The 29-year-old Baker brings experience to the major league level, having made 17 appearances this season and 130 across his career. With an ERA+ of 108, he presents a more reliable option for the Orioles' pitching staff.
Baker's promotion comes at a crucial juncture for the Orioles, who currently hold a 26-29 record since the All-Star break. The team finds itself four games behind the Yankees in the AL East but holds a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race.
A Team in Transition
The Orioles' recent struggles have not gone unnoticed. General Manager Mike Elias provided candid insights into the team's challenges, stating, "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months." He acknowledged the noticeable reasons behind the downturn, adding, "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."
Elias's comments reflect a broader issue within the team, one that extends beyond Kimbrel's individual struggles. The promotion of Baker is part of an effort to stabilize a bullpen that has faltered in recent months, hoping to regain some of the lost momentum as the season progresses.
Looking Forward
As the Orioles navigate the final stretch of the season, the focus will be on both immediate performance and long-term planning. Kimbrel's designation for assignment marks a turning point, and the promotion of Baker suggests a readiness to pivot towards options showing more promise.
With their wild-card standing in a precarious position, the Orioles need to address the inconsistencies that have plagued their roster. Kimbrel's departure and Baker's arrival embody the adjustments being made in pursuit of stability and success in the closing stages of the season.
The Orioles' ability to bounce back will heavily rely on their revamped bullpen finding its stride. As they compete to secure a playoff spot, the performance of key pitchers will be under intense scrutiny, with every game carrying significant weight in the quest for postseason baseball.
