Injuries and Rehabilitation
The Baltimore Orioles will be without their right-handed starter, Kyle Bradish, for the remainder of the season.
Bradish recently underwent Tommy John surgery, which included the installation of an internal brace to support his ulnar collateral ligament. He had missed the first month of the 2024 season after a UCL sprain was discovered in February. Although initially opting for a non-surgical approach seemed like a feasible solution, it ultimately proved to be only a temporary fix.
Before being sidelined, Bradish posted impressive numbers on the mound. He managed a 2.75 ERA and a 2.48 FIP in 39 1/3 innings across eight starts. These figures reflect his exceptional performance, which includes his standout 2023 season where he recorded a 2.83 ERA and a 3.82 K/BB ratio over 168 2/3 innings. This performance earned him a fourth-place finish in the AL Cy Young voting in 2023, underlining his importance to the Orioles' rotation.
Current State of the Rotation
The loss of Bradish compounds a precarious situation for the Orioles' rotation. Alongside Bradish, John Means and Tyler Wells are also expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season following their own elbow surgeries. This trio's absence puts significant pressure on the Orioles' pitching staff.
Orioles’ general manager Mike Elias faces the pivotal task of seeking out starting pitchers as the trade deadline approaches. These potential moves are crucial if the Orioles are to mount a serious challenge to overtake the Yankees in the AL East.
Aiming for the Title
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles aim to replicate their success from 2023 when they won 101 games and captured the American League East title. Part of their strength this season has been reinforced by the acquisition of Corbin Burnes during the past offseason. Currently, the Orioles boast a 47-25 record and are trailing the Yankees by just 2 1/2 games.
However, the loss of Kyle Bradish is significant, not only statistically but also from a morale perspective. His absence leaves a gaping hole in the rotation and places additional pressure on the remaining pitchers and the front office to execute well-timed trades.
The decisions made in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the Orioles' trajectory for the remainder of the season. Should they fail to bolster their rotation, they risk squandering the promising start they’ve had this year, and their aspirations of repeating last season’s success could be in jeopardy.
For now, the Orioles and their fans will nervously watch the calendar, hopeful that additions to the roster will provide the necessary boost to contend with their divisional rivals. The path to the postseason is undoubtedly more challenging, but with strategic acquisitions and resilience, the Orioles can still aspire to finish their season on a high note despite the unfortunate injuries to key players.