Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
Kyle Bradish will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery, adding to the list of setbacks for the Baltimore Orioles’ pitching staff. The Orioles' rotation has been plagued by injuries this season, impacting their depth and forcing the team to explore various alternatives.
John Means and Tyler Wells have also required elbow surgeries, and Dean Kremer is currently sidelined with a strained triceps. Despite these challenges, the Orioles have maintained a solid rotation, showcasing their resilience.
Current Pitching Rotation
The Orioles' current rotation includes Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. This group has managed to keep the team competitive, as evidenced by their third-place ranking in rotation ERA as of Wednesday. Albert Suárez has emerged as a bright spot in the rotation, delivering consistent performances that have helped stabilize the pitching staff.
Potential Trade Candidates
With several key pitchers out due to injuries, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades. Here are some potential trade candidates who could make a significant impact:
Jesús Luzardo: Luzardo has been impressive since 2022, posting an ERA+ of 118. He could provide the Orioles with a much-needed boost in their rotation.
Paul Blackburn: Currently recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, Blackburn has been a league-average starter since 2022. If he can return to form, he could be a valuable addition.
Tyler Anderson: Owed over $20 million through next season, Anderson’s contract may be a consideration. However, his experience and performance could justify the investment.
Erick Fedde: Fedde's recent performances have been intriguing, making him a potential target for Baltimore as they look to strengthen their rotation.
Nick Martinez: Martinez has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen. With a $12 million player option for next year, he could provide flexibility for the Orioles.
Austin Gomber: Gomber offers another year of team control after this season, making him an attractive option for the Orioles’ front office as they think long-term.
Cal Quantrill: Similar to Gomber, Quantrill also comes with another year of team control, adding a level of security for the Orioles should they acquire him.
Reid Detmers: While Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics, he has struggled with his ERA. A change of scenery might help him find consistency.
Braxton Garrett: Garrett has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances since 2022. Although he has dealt with a shoulder impingement, his potential makes him a viable trade target.
Garrett Crochet: Boasting a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, a cutter, and a slider, Crochet has an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio, making him one of the more enticing options for the Orioles to consider.
Exploring trade options could be crucial for the Orioles as they strive to remain competitive through the remainder of the season. The decisions made in the coming weeks will significantly impact Baltimore's ability to contend, given the current state of their pitching staff.
With key pitchers like Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells sidelined, and Dean Kremer nursing an injury, the Orioles have no choice but to look externally for solutions. The aforementioned trade candidates provide a variety of options, each bringing different strengths and potential upsides.
As the Orioles navigate these challenging times, they can take solace in the fact that their current rotation has performed admirably, particularly with standout performances from pitchers like Albert Suárez. However, to ensure they maintain momentum and continue competing at a high level, strategic moves and acquisitions may be necessary. The coming weeks will be critical as the Orioles' front office evaluates their options and makes decisions that could define their season.