Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment, Promote Bryan Baker
In a move that underscores recent troubles, the Baltimore Orioles have designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. This decision comes on the heels of a series of disappointing performances that had eroded Kimbrel’s previously solid record this season.
Kimbrel’s Struggles
Craig Kimbrel, a 36-year-old pitcher with an illustrious career, has seen a drastic downturn in recent weeks. On Tuesday night, Kimbrel allowed six runs on three hits and two walks in a game against the San Francisco Giants. Once a reliable closer, his recent form has shaken the Orioles' confidence in him. Before the All-Star Game, Kimbrel maintained a respectable ERA of 2.80, but that number has ballooned to 5.33 over his last 18 appearances.
During this challenging stretch, Kimbrel's performance metrics have been troublesome. He conceded 22 runs (20 of them earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks, summing up to an ERA of 10.59 over 17 innings. Despite striking out 20 batters in this span, the frequency of his earned runs has overshadowed his strikeout capability. As a result, Kimbrel was removed from the closer role, making way for Seranthony Domínguez, who has been filling the position for the past month.
Bryan Baker’s Opportunity
The Orioles have called up Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk to fill the gap left by Kimbrel. The 29-year-old right-hander brings with him considerable experience, having made 17 appearances at the major league level this season and 130 in his career. Baker's overall ERA+ of 108 suggests he might bring the stability that Baltimore’s bullpen desperately needs.
Team Performance
The Orioles’ struggles extend beyond their bullpen. Since the All-Star break, the team has posted a 26-29 record, lagging four games behind the Yankees in the AL East. Despite being in a tight race, Baltimore holds a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card standings.
General manager Mike Elias commented on the team's recent slide, expressing a sentiment of lost momentum: “The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months.” Elias noted that both individual and collective downturns have contributed to the team's performance slump: “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.”
Kimbrel's Legacy
Though his current season falters, Kimbrel’s career achievements remain significant. He ranks fifth all-time in saves and is second among active pitchers in this category. Such accolades underscore the high expectations that accompanied him to Baltimore. Unfortunately, this season marks his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, a clear indicator of his diminishing dominance on the mound.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles’ decision to designate Kimbrel for assignment while promoting Baker signals a critical juncture for the team as they vie for postseason positioning. With high stakes in the remaining weeks of the season, Baltimore hopes that fresh personnel changes will reinvigorate their playoff push.
For Kimbrel, this transition phase may serve as a period of reflection and recalibration. While his recent performances have been disheartening, his career remains a testament to his skill and tenacity—a legacy that may yet see a resurgence under different circumstances.
