Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Elbow Surgery
The Baltimore Orioles have faced significant challenges this season, particularly with injuries impacting their pitching staff. The latest blow comes as Kyle Bradish has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following elbow surgery.
Injury-Plagued Pitching Staff
The Orioles' pitching staff has been decimated by injuries this season. In addition to Bradish, both John Means and Tyler Wells have required elbow surgeries. Dean Kremer is also sidelined, dealing with a strained triceps.
Maintaining a Solid Rotation
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation. Currently, the rotation includes Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Impressively, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, a testament to their depth and management's ability to navigate through adversity.
Albert Suárez, in particular, has been a bright spot for the Orioles. His contributions have provided stability during a period when the pitching staff has been in flux.
Potential Trade Candidates
With the injuries piling up, the Orioles may look to the trade market to bolster their rotation. Several intriguing options could be on their radar, each bringing different strengths and potentials to the table:
- Jesús Luzardo: Since 2022, Luzardo has been impressive, boasting an ERA+ of 118.
- Paul Blackburn: Recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, Blackburn has been a league-average starter since 2022.
- Tyler Anderson: Anderson, though owed over $20 million through next season, offers a reliable veteran presence.
- Erick Fedde: Recent performance has made Fedde an intriguing option for many teams.
- Nick Martinez: Martinez has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen and holds a $12 million player option for next year.
- Austin Gomber: Gomber offers the Orioles another year of team control after this season.
- Cal Quantrill: Similar to Gomber, Quantrill also has another year of team control.
- Reid Detmers: Detmers has improved pitch metrics but has struggled to control his ERA.
- Braxton Garrett: Posting a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances since 2022, Garrett has dealt with a shoulder impingement.
- Garrett Crochet: With a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, a cutter, and a slider, Crochet boasts an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
As the Orioles explore their options, these potential trade candidates represent a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents who could help shore up their pitching staff for the rest of the season and beyond.
Crucial Decisions Ahead
Exploring trade options could be crucial for the Orioles as they look to remain competitive. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete for a playoff spot. Acquiring the right pieces to fill in the gaps left by injured players could be the defining factor in how their season unfolds.
While the Orioles have managed to hold their own so far, bolstering the rotation with dependable arms could provide the necessary depth and flexibility to endure the rigors of the remaining season. The right trades could facilitate their journey towards a potential postseason berth, securing a stronger position within the league.
In summary, despite the challenging season marked by significant injuries, the Orioles have shown resilience and maintained a commendable performance. The upcoming decisions regarding potential trades will be pivotal in determining how effectively the team can sustain its momentum and continue its quest for success.