The Baltimore Orioles have decided to designate veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment, a significant move as the team navigates the final stretch of the season. In a corresponding move, the Orioles called up right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk, hoping to bolster their bullpen as they pursue a postseason berth.
Disappointing Decline
Kimbrel, a 36-year-old pitcher, has seen a notable decline in performance recently. Throughout his illustrious career, he has accumulated impressive accolades, ranking fifth all-time in saves and second among active pitchers in that category. However, his recent struggles on the mound have been a cause for concern. After allowing six runs on three hits and two walks in a single outing against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night, the decision to part ways with Kimbrel became inevitable.
“The mojo that we've had has just drifted away from us the last few months," lamented Mike Elias, encapsulating the team's recent struggles and the rationale behind the decision. "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.”
Stark Decline in Performance
Kimbrel’s trajectory this season underscores the drastic downturn. Prior to the All-Star break, he posted a respectable 2.80 ERA. However, over his last 18 appearances, his ERA has ballooned to 5.33, influenced heavily by giving up 22 runs (20 earned) on 22 hits and 15 walks. During this stretch, he struck out 20 batters in 17 innings, but his ERA during these appearances was a staggering 10.59.
This season marks Kimbrel's third since 2019 with an ERA+ below 90, further emphasizing his struggles in recent years. The once-dominant closer, who was removed from his role in favor of Seranthony Domínguez, has not been able to regain his form, leading to his current predicament.
A New Hope in Bryan Baker
Baker, who is stepping into the roster spot vacated by Kimbrel, brings a blend of youth and potential. At 29 years old, Baker has demonstrated competence at the major league level. With 17 appearances this season and 130 over his career, he enters with an overall 108 ERA+, suggesting he could provide some much-needed stability to the bullpen.
The Orioles, currently holding a 26-29 record since the All-Star break, find themselves four games behind the New York Yankees in the AL East. Despite their struggles, they maintain a four-game advantage in the AL wild-card race. The reinvigorated bullpen with Baker's addition could be crucial as the team strives to secure a playoff spot.
Forward Focus
The organization and its fans are undoubtedly hoping that this roster adjustment will reignite the team's performance. With the departure of Kimbrel, a prominent figure in the bullpen, the spotlight now shifts to new arrivals like Baker, who could play pivotal roles in the crucial upcoming games.
The Orioles' challenge will be to maintain their standing while evaluating and utilizing their talent to the fullest. The integration of Baker could provide a fresh dynamic as they vie for momentum in the tightly contested AL East and the wild-card race. The next phase of the season will reveal if these adjustments can truly steer the Orioles back to their winning ways, capturing the "mojo" that has eluded them in recent months.