The Baltimore Orioles, boasting the best record in the American League, highlight the prowess of their young talent, yet acknowledge the need to bolster their veteran roster. In light of Felix Bautista’s injury, they seek another reliever to navigate through the season.
Before the season commenced, the Orioles secured the services of the future Hall of Famer Craig Kimbrel on a one-year deal. However, Bautista’s Tommy John surgery deprived Baltimore of arguably the league’s premier closer, thrusting Kimbrel into a temporary role. Regrettably, Kimbrel’s performance has fallen short of expectations, marked by numerous blown saves and struggles to close out games. Consequently, Manager Brandon Hyde has reassigned him to a lesser role within the bullpen. Surprisingly, this demotion appeared to ease Kimbrel’s burden, as evidenced by his flawless 11th inning, securing a victory for the Orioles over the Arizona Diamondbacks. It seems likely that Kimbrel will remain in this capacity for the remainder of the season.
Reportedly, the Orioles are compiling a list of trade targets, as revealed by Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports. Nightengale suggests, “The Baltimore Orioles privately realize that they are going to have to find [a] closer for the pennant stretch with Craig Kimbrel melting down. They have their eyes on St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano, and Astros reliever Ryan Pressly, if their teams become deadline sellers.”
The Orioles are seeking to obtain a new closer following Craig Kimbrel’s struggles.
Kimbrel boasts an illustrious career, garnering nine All-Star nominations, the Rookie of the Year award, both league’s top reliever honors, and a World Series ring. However, at 35, his playing days are waning, if not already behind him. Though it’s not entirely his fault, the Orioles have realized he’s no longer reliable in tight situations. Following their significant acquisition of Corbin Burnes, they’re poised to pursue another impactful move.
Helsley, who wasn’t traded during the previous deadline when the Cardinals underwent restructuring, appears primed for a potential move this time around. With an impressive 1.50 ERA, the 29-year-old continues to dominate opposing batters.
Romano, representing the Blue Jays, finds himself on a team struggling in the fiercely competitive AL East. Should Toronto’s playoff hopes dwindle, they might opt to offload some players. Despite his 4.15 ERA this season, Romano has maintained a sub-three ERA over the past three seasons, averaging at least 59.0 innings pitched.
Pressly, currently with the Houston Astros, is part of a team languishing at the bottom of the AL West. While Josh Hader serves as their closer this season, Pressly has previously held the role. However, at 35 and with underwhelming performance this season, he might emerge as a more budget-friendly option if top-tier choices prove unattainable.
As the July 30 deadline approaches, the Orioles have an array of trade options at their disposal. Despite facing stiff competition, they boast promising prospects to entice potential trade partners.
