Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
Kyle Bradish will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. This is a significant blow to the Orioles' pitching staff, which has already been heavily impacted by injuries.
Injury Struggles for the Orioles
John Means and Tyler Wells have both required elbow surgeries, further depleting the Orioles' lineup. Meanwhile, Dean Kremer is sidelined with a strained triceps, adding to an already tough situation for the team's rotation.
Resilient Orioles' Rotation
Despite the setbacks, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation. Their current rotation features Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Impressively, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, a testament to their depth and resilience.
Albert Suárez, in particular, has been a bright spot in the rotation, consistently delivering strong performances. His contributions have been crucial in keeping the Orioles competitive.
Potential Trade Candidates
Given the injuries, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades as the season progresses. Several potential candidates could be on the table to fill the gaps left by injured players.
Jesús Luzardo has been impressive since 2022, with an ERA+ of 118. He could provide a valuable addition to the Orioles' pitching staff.
Paul Blackburn is another option, although he is currently recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot. Despite this, he has been a league-average starter since 2022 and could provide some needed stability.
Tyler Anderson, who is owed over $20 million through next season, also presents a possibility. His experience and skill could be of great value to the Orioles.
Meanwhile, Erick Fedde's recent performance makes him an intriguing option. If he continues to show improvement, he could be a valuable asset for the Orioles.
Nick Martinez has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen. With a $12 million player option for next year, he could offer flexibility for the Orioles depending on their needs.
Austin Gomber, who offers another year of team control after this season, also presents a potential trade target. His experience and potential for growth make him a viable option for the Orioles.
Cal Quantrill, with another year of team control, could be another possibility. His consistent performances make him a worthwhile consideration for the Orioles' rotation.
Reid Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics but has struggled with his ERA. If the Orioles can work with him to address these issues, he could become a valuable pitcher for the team.
Braxton Garrett and Garrett Crochet
Braxton Garrett has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances starting from 2022. However, he has dealt with a shoulder impingement, which may affect his availability and performance.
Garrett Crochet, on the other hand, has been impressive with a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, a cutter, and a slider. His 130 ERA+ and 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio make him an attractive candidate for the Orioles' rotation.
Importance of Trade Decisions
Exploring trade options will be crucial for the Orioles as they navigate through these injury challenges. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete for the remainder of the season.
The Orioles' front office must consider these potential trade candidates carefully, weighing the pros and cons of each option. Strengthening their rotation through strategic trades could provide the boost needed to maintain their competitive edge.
As the season progresses, the Orioles will need to stay vigilant and proactive in addressing their pitching needs. With the right moves, they can continue to build on their solid performances and remain a strong contender.