Injuries and Rehabilitation
The Baltimore Orioles will have to navigate the remainder of the season without their right-handed starter Kyle Bradish. The promising pitcher underwent Tommy John surgery, which included the installation of an internal brace to support his ulnar collateral ligament. The setback is a significant blow to the team’s rotation and their playoff aspirations.
Bradish's injury woes began when a UCL sprain was discovered in February, causing him to miss the first month of the 2024 season. Initially, a non-surgical approach was chosen as a temporary solution in hopes of his recovery. However, it became evident that surgery was the only viable option for long-term success.
Before his injury, Bradish was a vital part of the Orioles' rotation. He managed an impressive 2.75 ERA and a 2.48 FIP in 39 1/3 innings across eight starts this season. His 2023 season was equally impressive, recording a 2.83 ERA and a 3.82 K/BB ratio over 168 2/3 innings, which earned him a fourth-place finish in the AL Cy Young voting. His performance over the past two seasons underscores the magnitude of his loss to the team.
Current State of the Rotation
Bradish’s injury is just one of several that have beset the Orioles' rotation. Both John Means and Tyler Wells are also expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season following their own elbow surgeries. The triple blow to the rotation puts the Orioles in a precarious situation as they aim to compete in the fiercely contested AL East.
Given the state of the rotation, Orioles’ general manager Mike Elias will likely be active in seeking out starting pitchers leading up to the trade deadline. The need for new arms is crucial if the Orioles hope to overtake the Yankees in the division standings and maintain their competitive edge.
Aim for the Title
The Orioles are aiming to replicate their success from the 2023 season, when they won 101 games and secured the American League East title. Their off-season acquisition of Corbin Burnes was a strategic move to bolster the rotation, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a strong pitching staff.
Despite the injuries, the Orioles have managed a 47-25 record so far this season and are trailing the division-leading Yankees by just 2 1/2 games. The loss of Kyle Bradish is a significant blow, both statistically and for team morale. However, the decisions made by the front office in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season.
In conclusion, the Orioles are facing a critical juncture in their season. The loss of key pitchers like Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells has put significant strain on their rotation. However, with strategic acquisitions and the resilience shown by their current roster, the Orioles can still aim to repeat their previous success. The weeks leading up to the trade deadline will be crucial, and the moves made during this period could ultimately define their season’s outcome.
The Orioles and their fans will be watching closely, hoping that the team can navigate these challenges and continue their quest for the AL East title and beyond.