Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
In a move that marks a significant shift in their bullpen dynamics, the Baltimore Orioles have designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. The 36-year-old pitcher has struggled considerably in recent months, allowing six runs on three hits and two walks during a game against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night.
Kimbrel's performance has been on a downward trajectory since the All-Star break. Before the mid-season classic, his ERA stood at an impressive 2.80. However, over his last 18 appearances, that number has ballooned to 5.33. During this span, Kimbrel gave up 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks, striking out 20 batters across 17 innings. His ERA over those innings was a staggering 10.59, reflecting the struggles that led to his removal from the closer's role.
Turning Point in the Season
For the Orioles, the decision to part ways with Kimbrel highlights the challenges the team has faced since the All-Star break. With a 26-29 record in that period, Baltimore has seen its early season momentum wane. "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months," said Orioles’ General Manager Mike Elias. "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."
Seranthony Domínguez has taken over the closer duties for the past month, a role he has seemingly solidified given Kimbrel's struggles. This transition further underscores the team's efforts to stabilize its bullpen as it navigates the final stretch of the season.
Baker Steps Up
Stepping into the newly opened slot in the bullpen is 29-year-old right-hander Bryan Baker, promoted from Triple-A Norfolk. Baker has already made 17 appearances at the major league level this season and 130 across his career, boasting an overall ERA+ of 108. His experience and performance will be crucial as the Orioles aim to secure their position in the postseason.
Baker’s arrival comes at a critical juncture. The Orioles are currently four games behind the Yankees in the AL East but maintain a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race. Every game counts, and the team will rely on Baker to deliver consistency and reliability from the bullpen.
Kimbrel's Legacy
Despite his recent struggles, Craig Kimbrel's career should not be overshadowed by this rough patch. Ranking fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers, Kimbrel’s contributions to baseball have been significant. However, this season will mark his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, indicating a gradual decline from his peak performance years.
The Orioles’ decision to move on from Kimbrel is a poignant reminder of the ever-changing nature of professional sports. For a player who once instilled fear in the hearts of batters across the league, the challenge now lies in finding a new path forward.
As the Orioles continue their push towards the postseason, the focus shifts to how the revamped bullpen can support the team’s ambitions. With Baker's promotion and Domínguez’s steady hand as the closer, Baltimore hopes to regain the mojo that has eluded them in recent months. The coming weeks will reveal whether these changes can propel the team to success in the decisive moments of the season.
