Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
The Baltimore Orioles have faced significant setbacks with their pitching staff this season. The latest blow comes with the news that Kyle Bradish will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. This marks a troubling trend for the team, which has been plagued by injuries to key pitchers.
John Means and Tyler Wells have also required elbow surgeries, while Dean Kremer is currently sidelined with a strained triceps. Despite these challenges, the Orioles' rotation has managed to hold strong, thanks to some standout performances and capable replacements.
Current Rotation Holds Steady
Even with the injuries to their top pitchers, the Orioles have maintained a solid rotation. Their current roster includes Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. As of Wednesday, the team's rotation ranks third in ERA, showcasing their resilience and depth.
Particularly noteworthy is Albert Suárez, who has been a bright spot in the rotation. His contributions have helped stabilize the pitching staff during a turbulent period.
Exploring Trade Options
With the continued strain on their pitching roster, the Orioles might look to bolster their rotation through trades. Several potential trade candidates could help strengthen the team's lineup as they aim to remain competitive.
Among the promising options is Jesús Luzardo, who has been impressive since 2022, boasting an ERA+ of 118. Luzardo's performance could provide a much-needed boost to the Orioles' pitching staff.
Paul Blackburn, while recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, has been a league-average starter since 2022. His recovery and performance could decide his value as a trade prospect.
Another candidate is Tyler Anderson, who, despite being owed over $20 million through next season, could offer reliability and experience. Additionally, Erick Fedde's recent performance makes him an intriguing option for the Orioles.
Nick Martinez has split his season between the rotation and bullpen and holds a $12 million player option for next year. His versatility could be beneficial for the Orioles' rotation.
Austin Gomber presents another trade option with another year of team control after this season, making him an attractive candidate for teams looking for long-term solutions. Similarly, Cal Quantrill, who also comes with an additional year of team control, could be a valuable addition.
Reid Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics despite struggling with his ERA. If he can translate his metrics into consistent performance, he could be a valuable asset. Braxton Garrett, who has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances since 2022 but has dealt with a shoulder impingement, is another potential target.
Garrett Crochet impresses with his mid-to-upper-90s fastball, cutter, and slider. With an ERA+ of 130 and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio, Crochet could significantly enhance the Orioles' pitching depth.
Crucial Decisions Ahead
As the Orioles navigate the remainder of the season, exploring trade options could be crucial. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks will significantly impact the team's ability to compete at a high level. Strengthening their rotation through strategic trades will be vital to ensure they remain contenders despite the setbacks.
The injuries to key pitchers present a challenging landscape, but with calculated moves and the right acquisitions, the Orioles can bolster their lineup and continue to push for success this season and beyond.