Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
The Baltimore Orioles have taken another significant hit to their pitching staff as Kyle Bradish has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following elbow surgery. This marks yet another blow to a squad already beleaguered by injuries.
Injury Woes for the Orioles
The Orioles' pitching rotation has experienced a spate of injuries that have compromised their depth. John Means and Tyler Wells have both undergone elbow surgeries earlier this season, and Dean Kremer is currently sidelined with a strained triceps. These significant injuries have forced the Orioles to rely on alternative options to keep their rotation competitive.
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles have defied expectations and maintained a robust rotation, featuring pitchers like Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Remarkably, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, thanks in part to some standout performances.
Bright Spots in the Rotation
One of the pivotal contributors has been Albert Suárez, who has been a bright spot throughout the season. His consistency and reliability have been crucial for the Orioles as they navigate through their injury woes.
Potential Trade Candidates
Given the current state of their pitching staff, the Orioles may need to explore the trade market to bolster their rotation. Several pitchers could be potential trade targets that might help the team remain competitive as they aim for postseason contention.
Jesús Luzardo stands out as a viable candidate; since 2022, he has been impressive with an ERA+ of 118. His performance has been essential for his current team, making him an appealing option for the Orioles.
Paul Blackburn is another pitcher to consider, although he is recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot. Since 2022, Blackburn has been a league-average starter, providing a reliable option if he can return to form.
Additionally, Tyler Anderson is in the mix, but his contract situation makes him a more expensive option. Owed over $20 million through next season, the Orioles would have to weigh his cost against his potential impact.
Erick Fedde, with his recent strong performances, could be an intriguing option as well. His ability to consistently deliver solid outings makes him a valuable asset.
Nick Martinez's versatility in splitting his season between the rotation and the bullpen enhances his value. However, his $12 million player option for next year might be a financial consideration for the Orioles.
Austin Gomber and Cal Quantrill provide the advantage of additional team control beyond this season, making them more attractive as longer-term solutions. Meanwhile, Reid Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics but has struggled with his ERA, indicating room for potential improvement under the right circumstances.
Young and Promising Options
Braxton Garrett, who has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances starting from 2022, is another potential target. However, he has dealt with a shoulder impingement, which might raise questions about his immediate availability.
Garrett Crochet brings an impressive 130 ERA+ and a remarkable 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His mid-to-upper-90s fastball, cutter, and slider make him an enticing prospect for any team looking to enhance its pitching prowess.
Looking Ahead
As the Orioles consider their options, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining their course of action. Exploring the trade market could be critical for maintaining their postseason ambitions. The decisions made during this period could significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete at the highest level.
In summary, the Orioles face a challenging road ahead as they navigate their injury-plagued rotation. With strategic trades and astute management decisions, they have the potential to continue their quest for postseason success, despite the current adversities.