Orioles Designate Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Baker Amidst Struggles
In a move aimed at rejuvenating their bullpen, the Baltimore Orioles designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment and promoted fellow right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk. This decision comes as the Orioles face a critical juncture in their season, sitting four games behind the New York Yankees in the AL East and holding a narrow four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race.
Kimbrel’s Struggles on the Mound
The 36-year-old Kimbrel, who ranks fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers, has experienced a dramatic decline in performance. After maintaining an impressive ERA of 2.80 before the All-Star Game, Kimbrel's stats have plummeted in recent weeks. Over his last 18 appearances, his ERA ballooned to 5.33, surrendering 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks across 17 innings. This rough patch included allowing six runs on three hits and two walks during a game against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night.
The once-dominant closer was removed from his role, with Seranthony Domínguez taking over as the team's closer for the past month. Kimbrel's overall performance this season will mark his third since 2019 where he recorded an ERA+ below 90, a far cry from his former Cy Young-caliber years.
General Manager Mike Elias commented on the situation, stating, "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."
Introducing Bryan Baker
In Kimbrel's stead, the Orioles have called up Bryan Baker, a 29-year-old right-hander, from Triple-A Norfolk. Baker has shown promise in his limited time at the major league level, making 17 appearances this season and 130 in his career. Known for his effective arsenal, Baker holds an adjusted ERA+ of 108, suggesting above-average performance on the mound.
Baker's promotion comes at a time when the Orioles need to stabilize their bullpen to remain competitive in the wild-card race. His ability to pitch in high-leverage situations could provide the boost Baltimore needs as they attempt to regain their footing. The Orioles, who hold a 26-29 record since the All-Star break, are looking for any edge to secure a postseason berth.
Season Outlook
With Kimbrel's departure and Baker's arrival, the Orioles are making a clear statement about their direction moving forward. While Kimbrel has a storied career and remains a respected figure in the clubhouse, the necessity for consistent performance outweighs sentiment as Baltimore chases a playoff spot. The move underlines the importance of adaptability and the harsh realities of maintaining competitive form in Major League Baseball.
The Orioles' recent struggles highlight the volatility of a long season. As Elias pointed out, downturns in individual and team performances can be challenging to navigate. The hope is that Baker's youth and potential can contribute positively, complementing the efforts of established relievers like Domínguez, as the team seeks to recapture their early-season momentum.
Ultimately, the Orioles' ability to adapt and respond to these mid-season adjustments will be crucial in determining their fate down the stretch. The final months of the season will test the team's resilience and the strategic moves made by the front office. As fans watch closely, the clarity of the postseason picture will emerge, determining whether Baltimore's gamble will pay off.