The Baltimore Orioles are grappling with the sobering reality of losing right-handed starter Kyle Bradish for the remainder of the season. Bradish, who has been a pivotal component of the Orioles' rotation, recently underwent Tommy John surgery, which included the installation of an internal brace to support his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL).
Bradish's Injury and Rehabilitation
Bradish had missed the first month of the 2024 season after a UCL sprain was discovered in February. At that time, the team opted for a non-surgical approach, hoping that rest and rehabilitation could suffice. Unfortunately, this turned out to be a temporary solution. With the situation deteriorating, the decision was made for Bradish to undergo surgery.
A Stellar Season Cut Short
Before his injury, Bradish was having an outstanding season, posting a 2.75 ERA and a 2.48 FIP in 39 1/3 innings across eight starts. His performance was consistent with the remarkable numbers he put up in 2023, where he recorded a 2.83 ERA and a 3.82 K/BB ratio in 168 2/3 innings. These impressive statistics saw him finish fourth in the AL Cy Young voting in 2023.
Current State of the Rotation
The Orioles' rotation is in a precarious state, with Bradish's absence compounding the team's existing challenges. Both John Means and Tyler Wells are also expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season following their own elbow surgeries. This confluence of injuries places significant pressure on the Orioles’ pitching staff.
Possible Moves Before the Trade Deadline
Given the current situation, Orioles' general manager Mike Elias is likely to seek out starting pitchers leading up to the trade deadline. This approach may be crucial if the Orioles are to overtake the New York Yankees in the intensely competitive AL East. The team will need to make strategic decisions in the coming weeks, which will be pivotal in charting the season’s trajectory.
Aim for the Title
Despite the setbacks, the Orioles aim to replicate their success from 2023 when they won 101 games and captured the AL East title. Their standing looks promising with a 47-25 record, currently trailing the Yankees by just 2 1/2 games. The off-season acquisition of Corbin Burnes provides a glimmer of hope to stabilize the rotation.
However, the loss of Bradish is significant both statistically and from a morale perspective. His presence on the mound provided a sense of stability and confidence that the current rotation will sorely miss. As the Orioles navigate through this challenging period, the decisions they make in the ensuing weeks will be crucial to their pursuit of another AL East title.