The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant roster move as they designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. In a corresponding move, the team promoted right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk. The decision reflects a broader trend within the Orioles organization, as they seek to revitalize their pitching corps during a critical juncture of the season.
The Decline of a Closer
The 36-year-old Kimbrel, once a dominant force on the mound, has struggled mightily in recent outings. His recent performance stood in stark contrast to his earlier success, encapsulated by his plummeting ERA. Before the All-Star break, Kimbrel boasted a solid 2.80 ERA, but that figure has since ballooned to 5.33 over his last 18 appearances. In those 18 games, he surrendered 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks across 17 innings, resulting in a staggering ERA of 10.59 for that span.
In a particularly troubling outing against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night, Kimbrel allowed six runs on three hits and two walks, a performance emblematic of his recent struggles. Consequently, he was removed from his role as the team’s closer, with Seranthony Domínguez taking over the position over the past month.
Kimbrel's Career in Context
Despite his recent difficulties, Kimbrel's career achievements remain notable. He ranks fifth all-time in career saves and second among active pitchers in the category. However, this season marks his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, indicating a pattern of decline that the Orioles could no longer overlook.
New Opportunity for Baker
Entering the major league fray is 29-year-old Bryan Baker, who has made 17 appearances at the major league level this season and 130 in his career. With an overall ERA+ of 108, Baker brings a level of reliability that the Orioles hope will stabilize their bullpen.
The move comes at a crucial time for the Orioles, who have struggled since the All-Star break, posting a 26-29 record. They are currently four games behind the Yankees in the AL East but hold a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race.
Organizational Insights
Orioles General Manager Mike Elias addressed the team's recent performance, saying, "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months." 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."
Indeed, the Orioles have faced various challenges, and the struggles of once-reliable players like Kimbrel underscore the broader issues confronting the team. As they look to reclaim their form, the organization is banking on fresh contributions from players like Baker to stem the tide.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles' decision to designate Kimbrel for assignment represents a significant shift, aiming to infuse new energy into a bullpen that has been inconsistent in recent months. With the playoff race intensifying, the stakes are high, and every roster adjustment becomes crucial.
Baker's promotion is seen as a potential turning point. His track record and current form suggest he could provide the stability the Orioles desperately need. As the team continues to battle for a playoff spot, the contributions from their bullpen will likely determine their fate.
With the season entering a pivotal phase, the Orioles are making strategic moves to fortify their lineup. Whether these changes will pay off remains to be seen, but the message from the front office is clear: the team is committed to doing whatever it takes to compete at the highest level.
For Kimbrel, the journey may not be over, but it has reached a crossroads. His career accomplishments ensure he will be remembered as one of the game's great closers, even as he navigates this latest professional challenge.