The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant roster change by designating veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. In a corresponding move, the team has promoted right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk.
Kimbrel's Struggles
The decision to part ways with Kimbrel comes after a series of disappointing performances. The 36-year-old pitcher allowed six runs on three hits and two walks in a recent game against the San Francisco Giants. This outing exemplified his struggles over the past couple of months, during which his ERA ballooned from a respectable 2.80 before the All-Star break to a concerning 5.33 over his last 18 appearances.
Kimbrel has conceded 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks across those 18 appearances. Despite striking out 20 batters in 17 innings, his ERA over this stretch has been a staggering 10.59. The veteran reliever's performance led to his removal from the closer's role, a position that Seranthony DomĂnguez has held for the past month.
Team Dynamics
The Orioles' overall performance since the All-Star break has mirrored Kimbrel's downturn. With a 26-29 record post-break, the team finds itself four games behind the New York Yankees in the AL East, although they still maintain a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race.
Orioles General Manager Mike Elias commented on the team's recent struggles: "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months. 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."
Promoting Baker
In contrast to Kimbrel's recent performance, Bryan Baker, the 29-year-old right-hander, has shown promise. Baker has made 17 appearances in the majors this season and 130 in his career, posting an overall 108 ERA+. His addition to the roster aims to bolster the Orioles' bullpen as they enter the crucial final stretch of the season.
Kimbrel's Legacy
Despite his recent struggles, Kimbrel's career remains noteworthy. He ranks fifth all-time in saves and is second among active pitchers in this category. However, this season marks his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, raising questions about his future in the majors.
The designation for assignment indicates that the Orioles are looking to turn the page and possibly give younger arms like Baker a chance to shine. Kimbrel's legacy as one of the game's top closers remains intact, but his immediate future is uncertain as he navigates the latter stages of a storied career.
The Orioles are clearly in a transition phase, aiming to find the right balance as they push for a playoff spot. With key players experiencing downturns, both individually and collectively, the team's ability to adapt will be crucial in the weeks ahead.