Kimbrel Designated for Assignment as Orioles Seek to Regain Momentum
Kimbrel Designated for Assignment as Orioles Seek to Regain Momentum
The Baltimore Orioles made a significant roster move this week by designating veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. The decision underscores the team's attempt to shake things up amidst a challenging late-season stretch. In his stead, the organization promoted Bryan Baker, a promising right-hander from Triple-A Norfolk.
Kimbrel, a 36-year-old pitcher with a storied career, found himself struggling mightily in recent outings. Just on Tuesday night, he allowed six runs on three hits and two walks during a game against the San Francisco Giants. These recent outings have been part of a broader downturn; prior to the All-Star break, Kimbrel maintained a respectable ERA of 2.80. However, over his last 18 appearances, his ERA ballooned to 5.33, with a staggering 10.59 ERA in these innings. During this span, he gave up 22 runs—20 of them earned—on 22 hits and 15 walks, while striking out 20 batters across 17 innings.
The ongoing struggles resulted in Kimbrel being removed from the closer's role, a position now filled by Seranthony Domínguez over the past month. The changing dynamics within the bullpen are evident and necessary as the Orioles push to overcome recent setbacks.
A Veteran's Decline
For Kimbrel, this season will mark his third season since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, a striking contrast to his earlier career when he consistently ranked among the game's top relievers. Despite his recent struggles, Kimbrel's career numbers remain impressive. He ranks fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers in this category. Such achievements make his recent challenges all the more pronounced, highlighting the unforgiving nature of professional sports.
Enter Bryan Baker
The call-up of Bryan Baker, a 29-year-old right-hander, signifies hope and potential for the Orioles. Baker has already made 17 appearances at the major league level this season, bringing his career total to 130. With an overall 108 ERA+, Baker has demonstrated the capability to handle big league hitters effectively. His presence aims to bolster a bullpen in dire need of consistency as the Orioles navigate through a crucial phase of their season.
Team Struggles and the Road Ahead
The Orioles hold a 26-29 record since the All-Star break, placing them four games behind the Yankees in the AL East. However, they retain a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race, a cushion they aim to protect as the regular season winds down.
Reflecting on the team's struggles, Orioles' general manager Mike Elias remarked, "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months." He further elaborated, "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."
These comments encapsulate the broader challenges facing the Orioles, as they attempt to regain the form that had them in contention earlier in the season. With players both on an individual level and as a unit experiencing difficulties, the road to post-season success is fraught with challenges.
Conclusion
The Orioles' decision to designate Craig Kimbrel for assignment and promote Bryan Baker reflects the team's proactive approach to addressing their pitching woes. Kimbrel's difficulties highlight the volatility and unpredictability inherent in professional sports careers, while Baker's promotion offers a glimmer of hope for stabilization in the bullpen.
As the Orioles continue their pursuit of a wildcard spot, the focus will be on rediscovering the "mojo" that has eluded them in recent months. For fans and players alike, the final stretch of the season promises to be a test of resilience, character, and adaptability.
