Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment Amid Struggles
Orioles Designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment Amid Struggles
In a move that could signal significant changes in their bullpen, the Baltimore Orioles have designated veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment. The decision comes as Kimbrel, 36, has seen a downturn in his performance, allowing six runs on three hits and two walks in a recent game against the San Francisco Giants.
Known for his past dominance, Kimbrel's recent form has been a shadow of his former self. His ERA has ballooned from a respectable 2.80 before the All-Star break to a concerning 5.33 over his last 18 appearances. During this period, he surrendered 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks across 17 innings, leading to an alarming ERA of 10.59. Though he managed to strike out 20 batters, it wasn't enough to mask the underlying issues. This season marks his third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90.
Declining Velocity and Consistency
Kimbrel, who ranks fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers, has struggled to maintain the consistency and velocity that once made him one of the most feared closers in the game. His transition from the game’s elite closer to an embattled reliever has been stark, ultimately resulting in his removal from the closer's role with the Orioles.
The team's manager, Mike Elias, commented on the overall downturn, noting, "The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months. 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."
Transition and Opportunity
In Kimbrel's place, the Orioles have promoted fellow right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk. Baker, 29, has made 17 appearances at the major league level this season and has 130 career appearances overall. Known for his consistency, Baker boasts an overall ERA+ of 108, signaling a potential steadying presence in the bullpen.
Baker's promotion comes at a critical time for the Orioles, who currently hold a 26-29 record since the All-Star break. They are four games behind the Yankees in the AL East and have a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race. The team's performance in the coming weeks will be crucial as they vie for a postseason berth.
A Team in Transition
The Orioles are clearly in a period of transition, both on the mound and within the clubhouse. As the team navigates these changes, the focus will undoubtedly be on achieving greater consistency and recapturing the "mojo" that Elias referred to. The decision to designate Kimbrel for assignment could be a step towards stabilizing the bullpen and giving younger, potentially more reliable arms like Baker, the opportunity to contribute.
Kimbrel's legacy, marked by his ranking among the top in all-time saves, remains intact despite his recent struggles. For the Orioles, the hope is that fresh faces and a recalibrated bullpen can bring the needed boost as the postseason approaches.
Seranthony Domínguez has assumed the closer's role for the past month, adding another layer of change to a bullpen that desperately needs to find its footing. The moves reflect a strategic pivot, aiming to maximize performance and tighten the ship as every game becomes increasingly significant.
The story of Craig Kimbrel and the Orioles' bullpen is a testament to the relentless demand for performance in Major League Baseball. It also underscores the challenges that teams face in maintaining a competitive edge, and the difficult decisions that come with it. As the Orioles press on, their ability to adapt and respond to these developments will be crucial in their pursuit of success this season and beyond.
