Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
The Baltimore Orioles' pitching staff has experienced a significant set-back as Kyle Bradish is set to miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. This marks another blow to the injury-ridden team, which has seen several pitchers succumb to various ailments over the course of the season.
A String of Injuries
Bradish’s absence is not the only issue facing the Orioles' pitching rotation. Both John Means and Tyler Wells have required elbow surgeries this season, further depleting the already strained pitching staff. Moreover, Dean Kremer has been sidelined with a strained triceps, leaving the team searching for more reliable arms to carry the load.
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation. Their current rotation includes Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Remarkably, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, a testament to the resilience and depth within the squad.
Bright Spots in the Rotation
One of the most pleasant surprises for the Orioles this season has been the performance of Albert Suárez. Suárez has provided consistency and stability to the rotation, contributing significantly to the team’s strong showing in ERA rankings.
Potential Trade Candidates
Given the injuries and to ensure they remain competitive, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades. Here are some potential trade candidates who could come under consideration:
- Jesús Luzardo: Since 2022, Luzardo has been impressive with an ERA+ of 118, making him a strong candidate for the Orioles to pursue.
- Paul Blackburn: While Blackburn is recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, he has nonetheless been a league-average starter over the past couple of seasons.
- Tyler Anderson: Anderson is owed over $20 million through next season, which could deter some teams, but his capabilities on the mound make him a valuable option.
- Erick Fedde: Fedde's recent performance could make him an intriguing addition to the Orioles’ rotation.
- Nick Martinez: Having split his season between the rotation and the bullpen, Martinez comes with a $12 million player option for next year, which adds a layer of flexibility.
- Austin Gomber: Gomber offers another year of team control after this season, providing long-term benefits to whichever team acquires him.
- Cal Quantrill: Quantrill also comes with another year of team control, adding a layer of security for potential teams.
- Reid Detmers: Despite struggling with his ERA, Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics, offering potential upside.
- Braxton Garrett: Posting a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances since 2022, Garrett has dealt with a shoulder impingement, but his stats make him appealing.
- Garrett Crochet: Crochet boasts a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, cutter, and slider, along with an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Strategic Decisions Ahead
Exploring trade options could be crucial for the Orioles as they attempt to stay competitive in a challenging season. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks will significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete and sustain their performance amid the injuries plaguing their pitching staff.
While the loss of Kyle Bradish and others presents a hurdle, the strategic acquisition of new pitchers could help the Orioles maintain their standing and possibly improve as they move forward in the season. The team's front office will need to carefully weigh their options to find the best possible solutions to bolster their rotation and keep their playoff hopes alive.