Injuries and Rehabilitation
The Baltimore Orioles will be without right-handed starter Kyle Bradish for the remainder of the season. Bradish recently underwent Tommy John surgery, which included the installation of an internal brace to support his ulnar collateral ligament. The procedure marks the end of a tumultuous year for Bradish, who had already missed the first month of the 2024 season due to a UCL sprain discovered in February. Initially, a non-surgical approach was opted for as a temporary solution, but it ultimately did not suffice.
Bradish was a crucial part of the Orioles' rotation, posting a 2.75 ERA and a 2.48 FIP over 39 1/3 innings across eight starts this season. In 2023, he recorded a 2.83 ERA and an impressive 3.82 K/BB ratio over 168 2/3 innings, earning a fourth-place finish in the AL Cy Young voting. His absence will be felt both statistically and from a morale perspective as the Orioles strive to navigate through the remainder of the season.
Current State of the Rotation
The Orioles' rotation is currently in a precarious state. In addition to Bradish, John Means and Tyler Wells are also expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season following their own elbow surgeries. This string of injuries has left the team's pitching depth considerably depleted. General Manager Mike Elias may be forced to seek out starting pitchers as the trade deadline approaches, with any potential moves being crucial if the Orioles are to overtake the Yankees in the competitive AL East.
Aim for the Title
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles are aiming to repeat their success from 2023 when they won 101 games and captured the American League East title. The team made significant moves this past offseason, most notably acquiring Corbin Burnes to bolster their rotation. This season, the Orioles boast an impressive 47-25 record, trailing the Yankees by only 2 1/2 games.
The loss of Kyle Bradish is significant, but the team understands that decisions made in the coming weeks will be pivotal for the season's trajectory. With their eye on another AL East title and a deep playoff run, the Orioles are no strangers to overcoming adversity. How they manage their rotation and make strategic acquisitions in the weeks leading up to the trade deadline will largely determine their fate this season.
Looking Ahead
As the Orioles navigate through these challenges, fans will be watching closely to see how the front office addresses the current gaps in the starting rotation. The resilience of the team and the leadership from veteran players will be tested. With a strong performance from both the remaining pitchers and the lineup, the Orioles can still aim high and potentially replicate the magic of their 2023 season.
The Orioles' ability to weather this storm could serve as a testament to their depth and tenacity, qualities that have become hallmarks of their recent success. As the season progresses, every game, every inning, and every pitch will matter even more as they strive to achieve their lofty goals in the face of adversity. The true test of the team's mettle is upon them—whether they can rise to the challenge will define their season and perhaps their future as a formidable force in Major League Baseball.