Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
Kyle Bradish, a key player in the Baltimore Orioles' pitching staff, will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. His absence marks another significant blow to a team already grappling with numerous injuries.
The Orioles' pitching unit has endured an unfortunate series of setbacks. John Means and Tyler Wells, both essential components of the staff, also required elbow surgeries earlier this season. Additionally, Dean Kremer has been sidelined with a strained triceps, further depleting the team's capabilities on the mound.
Current Rotation Stepping Up
Despite these challenges, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation. The current starting lineup features Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Remarkably, this group has performed admirably, with the Orioles entering Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA.
Among the standout performers, Albert Suárez has been a bright spot, consistently delivering quality starts and contributing significantly to the team's success. His efforts, combined with strong showings from the other starters, have helped the Orioles remain competitive even with their injury woes.
Exploring Trade Options
Given the current state of their pitching staff, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades. Several potential candidates could strengthen the team's depth and enhance their prospects for the remainder of the season.
Jesús Luzardo, for instance, has been impressive since 2022, boasting an ERA+ of 118. His consistent performance and ability to command the mound make him an attractive option for the Orioles. Meanwhile, Paul Blackburn, although recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, has been a league-average starter since 2022 and could provide reliable innings.
Tyler Anderson is another name that could be on the Orioles' radar, though his contract could present a hurdle. He is owed over $20 million through next season, which might complicate any potential deal. Erick Fedde's recent performance, however, could make him an intriguing addition, offering the Orioles a potential playmaker on the mound.
Nick Martinez has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen and holds a $12 million player option for next year. This versatility could be valuable for the Orioles, providing flexibility in how they manage their rotation and bullpen.
Additional Targets
Austin Gomber and Cal Quantrill are both appealing options, as each offers another year of team control beyond this season. This additional control could be crucial for a team looking to build sustained success and stability in their rotation.
Reid Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics this season, although he has struggled with his ERA. If the Orioles believe they can help him harness his potential, Detmers could be a worthwhile acquisition. Similarly, Braxton Garrett has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances starting from 2022, despite dealing with a shoulder impingement, and could add depth to the Orioles' staff.
Garrett Crochet, known for his mid-to-upper-90s fastball, cutter, and slider, possesses an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His powerful arm and control could be a game-changer for Baltimore, adding a dynamic element to their pitching options.
As the Orioles explore these trade possibilities, the decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact their ability to compete for the remainder of the season and beyond. Bolstering their rotation is not just a short-term necessity but also a strategic move to position themselves for future success.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles' resilience in the face of adversity this season has been commendable. Despite losing key players to injury, the team has remained competitive, thanks in large part to the efforts of their current rotation. However, with the playoffs in sight, shoring up their pitching staff through potential trades could be essential to their ambitions.
The weeks ahead will be crucial for the Orioles' front office as they evaluate their options and make decisions that could shape the future of the franchise. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team navigates this challenging but pivotal period.