Kyle Bradish Out for Season Following Surgery
Kyle Bradish will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery. This news comes as a significant blow to the Baltimore Orioles, who have faced numerous challenges with their pitching staff this season.
The Orioles' pitching staff has been hit hard by injuries. Apart from Bradish, key pitchers John Means and Tyler Wells have also required elbow surgeries, further depleting the team of essential arms. Dean Kremer is another pitcher sidelined, this time with a strained triceps. Despite these setbacks, the Orioles have managed to maintain a solid rotation.
Current Rotation
The Baltimore Orioles' current rotation features Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Cole Irvin, Cade Povich, and Albert Suárez. Remarkably, they entered Wednesday ranked third in rotation ERA, a testament to the team's resilience and depth. Albert Suárez has been a bright spot in the rotation, offering consistent and reliable performances that have helped stabilize the team amid a slew of injuries.
Exploring Trade Candidates
With multiple pitchers sidelined, the Orioles may look to bolster their rotation through trades. Several potential trade candidates could be on Baltimore's radar.
Jesús Luzardo: Luzardo has been impressive since 2022, boasting an ERA+ of 118. His performance and consistency make him an attractive option for any team looking to strengthen their rotation.
Paul Blackburn: Although Paul Blackburn is recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, he has been a league-average starter since 2022. If he can return to form, Blackburn could provide much-needed stability.
Tyler Anderson: Anderson is owed over $20 million through next season, which might be a deterrent for some teams. However, his overall potential and experience could offset his financial burden.
Erick Fedde: Fedde's recent performance could make him an intriguing option for the Orioles. Evaluating his potential role in strengthening the rotation will be essential.
Nick Martinez: Martinez has split his season between the rotation and the bullpen. He has a $12 million player option for next year, highlighting his potential value and flexibility within the pitching staff.
Austin Gomber: Gomber offers another year of team control after this season, making him a valuable asset for teams looking for longer-term solutions.
Cal Quantrill: Similar to Gomber, Quantrill comes with another year of team control, adding an extra layer of appeal for teams in search of sustainable pitching solutions.
Reid Detmers: Reid Detmers has shown improved pitch metrics but has struggled with his ERA. Despite his challenges, his potential makes him a candidate worth considering.
Braxton Garrett: Garrett has posted a 115 ERA+ in 55 appearances starting from 2022. Although he has dealt with a shoulder impingement, his performance when healthy is commendable.
Garrett Crochet: Crochet brings a mid-to-upper-90s fastball, a cutter, and a slider to the table. With an impressive 130 ERA+ and a 6.11 strikeout-to-walk ratio, he's a standout candidate for any team looking to bolster their bullpen.
Exploring these trade options could be crucial for the Orioles. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact Baltimore's ability to compete throughout the rest of the season. With a current rotation that has shown resilience and consistency, adding the right pieces through trades may help the Orioles navigate their injury challenges and keep their playoff hopes alive.
As the trade deadline approaches, Baltimore's front office will undoubtedly continue to explore all potential avenues to fortify their pitching staff, ensuring they remain competitive and ready to face the challenges ahead.