The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant roster move by designating veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. The 36-year-old pitcher, whose performance has been on the decline, will make way for fellow right-hander Bryan Baker, who has been promoted from Triple-A Norfolk.
Kimbrel, who ranks fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers in this category, has struggled significantly since the mid-season break. The game against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night was emblematic of his troubles, as he allowed six runs on three hits and two walks. His ERA, which stood at 2.80 before the All-Star Game, has ballooned to 5.33 over his last 18 appearances. During this span, Kimbrel gave up 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks, striking out 20 batters across 17 innings, which translated to a staggering 10.59 ERA.
This season marks Kimbrel's third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, underscoring a concerning trend for the pitcher who was once a reliable closer. The downturn in his performance has prompted the Orioles to remove him from the closer’s role, a position now held by Seranthony Domínguez for the past month.
A New Opportunity for Bryan Baker
With Kimbrel's designation, Bryan Baker, a 29-year-old right-hander, will get his chance to contribute more significantly at the major league level. Baker has already made 17 appearances this season, adding to 130 in his career, and holds an overall 108 ERA+. His promotion comes at a critical juncture for the Orioles, who currently hold a 26-29 record since the All-Star break. The team is trailing four games behind the Yankees in the AL East but maintains a four-game advantage in the AL wild card race.
Team Performance and Challenges
As the Orioles grapple with their performance slump, General Manager Mike Elias reflected on the team's struggles and need for adjustments. "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months," Elias remarked. He added, "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."
These comments resonate deeply in the current circumstances, as the Orioles strive to regain the form that had buoyed them earlier in the season. A mix of individual player struggles and a collective dip in form has posed significant challenges. Kimbrel's designation, while a notable decision, is part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate the roster and address performance inconsistencies.
Looking Ahead
As the Orioles navigate this critical phase, the focus will be on both tactical changes and individual performances to steady the ship. The promotion of Bryan Baker signifies an injection of fresh energy and an opportunity for a young talent to make his mark. However, the team will need more than roster changes; a collective effort and perhaps a bit of that lost "mojo" will be essential for them to capitalize on their wild card advantage and remain competitive in the AL East race.
For veterans like Kimbrel, the designation marks a potential turning point. Whether he can bounce back and reestablish himself in a relief role elsewhere remains to be seen. Meanwhile, Orioles fans will be watching closely, hopeful that the adjustments and new player dynamics can spur a resurgence as the season progresses.