Right-hander Craig Kimbrel has been designated for assignment by the Baltimore Orioles. Right-hander Bryan Baker was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk to make room on the roster. Kimbrel, 36, signed a one-year deal with the Orioles but struggled in the closer’s role and was replaced by Seranthony Domínguez. Kimbrel went 7-5 with a 5.33 ERA and 23 saves over 57 games this season.
We have made the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/01oGelj2Ty
— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) September 18, 2024
Craig Kimbrel Designated by the Orioles
Kimbrel allowed six earned runs in Tuesday night’s 10-0 loss to the San Francisco Giants. That and his dismal ERA were both career highs for Kimbrel, who didn’t allow more than four of either in his previous 836 appearances. It was his first appearance in a week as his woes escalated in the second half. Kimbrel entered the All-Star break with a 2.80 ERA, which ballooned to 5.33 over his last 18 appearances. Over that span, he struck out 20 batters across 17 innings but compiled a 10.59 ERA and a .978 OPS against.
The Orioles (26-29) in the second half, removed Kimbrel from the closer’s gig, allowing Domínguez to receive ninth-inning opportunities for the time being. Kimbrel will go on waivers, and he will likely clear. If he lands with a contending team, he is ineligible for the postseason roster.
Kimbrel currently ranks fifth all-time with 440 saves and is six behind Kenley Jansen. Either pitcher could surpass Lee Smith for No. 3 all-time with 478. Kimbrel owns a career 2.59 ERA, 56 wins and 1,265 strikeouts in 809 2/3 innings.
Baker, 29, made 17 appearances for the Baltimore team this season, compiling a 4.71 ERA. On the mound, he struck out 18 batters and issued six walks, showcasing his ability to limit free passes while challenging opposing hitters.
The Orioles enter Wednesday four games behind the New York Yankees for first place in the American League East. They are four games up for first place in the AL Wild Card race.
Main Photo: © Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
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