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, a procedure that has become all too familiar in the world of baseball.
This surgery included the installation of an internal brace to support his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), addressing the injury that has plagued him this year. Bradish initially missed the first month of the 2024 season after a UCL sprain was discovered in February, and the non-surgical approach initially opted for proved to be only a temporary solution.
Before undergoing surgery, Bradish had an impressive run. In 39 1/3 innings across eight starts, he posted a 2.75 ERA and a 2.48 FIP, demonstrating his effectiveness on the mound. His performance in the 2023 season was equally remarkable, recording a 2.83 ERA and a 3.82 K/BB ratio in 168 2/3 innings, which earned him a fourth-place finish in the AL Cy Young voting.
Current State of the Rotation
The Orioles’ rotation is now in a precarious state. Alongside Bradish, the team is also grappling with the absence of John Means and Tyler Wells, both of whom are expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season following their own elbow surgeries. These injuries have left significant gaps in the team’s pitching staff, pressing the Orioles’ management to reconsider their strategy as the season progresses.
With the trade deadline approaching, Orioles’ general manager Mike Elias faces the critical task of seeking out starting pitchers to bolster the rotation. Moves made in the next few weeks may be crucial if the Orioles are to overtake the Yankees in the highly competitive AL East.
Aim for the Title
The Orioles are aiming to replicate their success from the 2023 season when they won an impressive 101 games and captured the American League East title. Adding to their roster this past offseason, the Orioles acquired Corbin Burnes, who has bolstered the team’s pitching lineup.
As of now, the Orioles have a 47-25 record and are trailing by just 2 1/2 games. While Kyle Bradish's loss is significant, both statistically and from a morale perspective, the team remains determined. The decisions made in the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the season’s trajectory. Balancing the immediate needs with long-term goals, including ensuring the health of their remaining pitchers, will be a challenge for the Orioles' management.
Despite the adversity, the Orioles continue to strive towards their ultimate goal – another title. The resilience and adaptability of the team in the face of these injuries will be tested, but their ambition and competitive spirit remain unwavering.