Injuries and Rehabilitation
Baltimore Orioles will be without right-handed starter Kyle Bradish for the remainder of the season. The news followed an announcement that Bradish underwent Tommy John surgery, which included the installation of an internal brace to support his ulnar collateral ligament. The pitcher initially missed the first month of the 2024 season after a UCL sprain was discovered in February. Although a non-surgical approach was initially chosen, it turned out to be a temporary solution.
Bradish had been a pillar of consistency on the mound this season, posting a 2.75 ERA and a 2.48 FIP in 39 1/3 innings across eight starts. His performance in 2023 was equally impressive, boasting a 2.83 ERA and a 3.82 K/BB ratio in 168 2/3 innings. His efforts did not go unnoticed as he finished fourth in AL Cy Young voting in 2023.
Current State of the Rotation
The Orioles’ rotation is now in a precarious state. In addition to Kyle Bradish, both John Means and Tyler Wells are also expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season following their own elbow surgeries. The team’s general manager, Mike Elias, might need to seek out starting pitchers leading up to the trade deadline. These moves could be crucial if the Orioles are to overtake the Yankees in the AL East.
Aim for the Title
Despite these setbacks, the Orioles aim to repeat their success from 2023 when they won 101 games and captured the American League East title. The team made significant moves in the offseason, most notably acquiring Corbin Burnes. Currently, the Orioles hold a 47-25 record and are trailing by 2 1/2 games in their division. The loss of Kyle Bradish is significant, both statistically and from a morale perspective.
Decisions made in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the season’s trajectory. The Orioles' ability to adapt and find suitable replacements for their injured starters will likely define their chances at contending for the title once again.