Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
Kyle Bradish will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. The loss of Bradish is a significant blow to an Orioles pitching staff that has been plagued by injuries throughout the season.
Injury Woes for Orioles Pitching Staff
In addition to Bradish, John Means and Tyler Wells have also required elbow surgeries, while Dean Kremer is currently sidelined with a strained triceps. These injuries have tested the depth and resilience of the Orioles’ pitching rotation.
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation. The current starting lineup includes Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Impressively, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, showcasing their ability to stay competitive even in the face of adversity.
Albert Suárez has been a bright spot within the rotation, contributing significantly to the team's success. His performance has been pivotal in stabilizing the rotation amid the personnel changes due to injuries.
Potential Trade Candidates
Given the current state of their pitching staff, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades. Several pitchers could potentially be targeted to provide the necessary depth and talent.
Jesús Luzardo has been impressive since 2022, boasting an ERA+ of 118. Luzardo's ability to consistently perform at a high level makes him an attractive candidate for a trade.
Another name that has surfaced is Paul Blackburn, who is currently recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot. Blackburn has been a league-average starter since 2022, which could provide the stability the Orioles are seeking.
Tyler Anderson, though owed over $20 million through next season, might be another option. While the financial aspect adds a layer of complexity, his experience and capabilities make him worth considering.
Erick Fedde's recent performance could make him an intriguing option for the Orioles. Though not a standout name, his consistency and reliability can add value to the Orioles' rotation.
Nick Martinez, who has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen, has a $12 million player option for next year. His versatility might be exactly what the Orioles need to navigate through the injury-marred season.
Other Notable Options
Austin Gomber comes with an additional year of team control after this season, which presents a favorable cost-benefit scenario for the Orioles.
Cal Quantrill is another pitcher with an extra year of team control, potentially adding long-term value to the Orioles' pitching staff.
Reid Detmers, although struggling with his ERA, has shown improved pitch metrics that suggest he could turn things around.
Braxton Garrett has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances starting from 2022, demonstrating his potential as a reliable starter. However, he has dealt with a shoulder impingement, which may be a consideration for the Orioles.
Garrett Crochet, featuring a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, a cutter, and a slider, has an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His skill set could undoubtedly strengthen the Orioles rotation.
Strategic Decisions Ahead
Exploring trade options could be crucial for the Orioles as they aim to bolster their rotation for the remainder of the season. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete.
While the Orioles have shown resiliency and depth within their rotation thus far, the addition of one or more new arms could provide the boost needed to navigate through their injury challenges and maintain their competitive edge.
As the trade deadline approaches, it will be interesting to see how the Orioles' front office navigates these potential trade opportunities to enhance their pitching staff, maintain their current standing, and propel the team towards a successful season.