Key Takeaways:
– Craig Kimbrel has managed to pull off a remarkable turnaround, showcasing a dominant display in his recent games.
– The Baltimore Orioles are optimistic about Kimbrel’s performance, potentially easing potential trade pressure.
– Injuries have dealt a blow to the team, with key players sidelined for the season.
– Despite health woes, the team remains hopeful about their World Series aspirations.
Baltimore Orioles’ Path To Consistency
The Baltimore Orioles’ pitching staff has seen their victories oscillating this season. From the opening ball to the closing innings, the team’s journey has been quite tumultuous. However, Craig Kimbrel’s recent performance could signal a significant step towards providing the long-desired consistency. Emerging from a series of games where he has remarkably refrained from allowances in hits, scores, or walks, Kimbrel has sparked hope for a more stable future for the team.
Game strategy has played a critical role in Kimbrel’s revival. Speaking to MASN Sports on June 3, he emphasized the effectiveness of his simplified approach: throwing more strikes and avoiding bad pitches. These changes to his play style have allowed him to gain an upper hand over his opponents, either by striking them out or getting them to swing at balls outside the strike zone. Dramatically, about 64-percent of Kimbrel’s 89 pitches in the recent eight games were called strikes, and 27-percent resulted in opponents being caught looking.
Trade Deadline and Baltimore’s Strategy
As the trade deadline looms in less than two months, Kimbrel’s improved performance becomes crucial. Baltimore has reportedly been actively scouting the bullpen market, largely due to the slumps seen earlier in the season. High-stakes trade decisions will arguably be swayed by Kimbrel’s current form. His ability to maintain this level of performance would limit the Orioles’ need to overcommit in any potential deals.
Dealing With Injuries But No Excuses
Injuries have been a reoccurring theme for the team. Earlier this season, specifically on April 26, Kimbrel exited a game due to upper back tightness which subsequently resulted in a consecutive blown save. Despite easy opportunities to attribute his slump to these health problems, the player has refused to do so. Instead, he has proven that he can rise above such setbacks.
His injuries are on the mend, and his renewed vigor on the field has been clear. Or, perhaps, he has simply found a way to pitch around his health problems. Regardless, his tenacity has proved a beneficial factor for both his career and the Orioles.
Team’s Health Woes and the Road Ahead
Health has been a consistent challenge for Baltimore. This year, starters John Means and Tyler Wells have been declared out for the season due to elbow and forearm issues respectively. Both will undergo surgical procedures this year, with the hope of returning in 2025. The impact of such losses is palpable in their absence from the mound.
Despite these setbacks, seasoned player Dean Kremer is set to return on June 5 after a bout with a triceps issue. As the pitching staff continues to evolve, and with the potential ripple effect of poor performance, the nine-time All-Star player Kimbrel closing out games gives the Orioles optimism. Besides, if the rest of the rotation can maintain their health, this Orioles team might still fulfill their World Series aspirations.
The current situation is certainly challenging for the Orioles, but with Kimbrel playing his A-game and a potential comeback from Kremer, their World Series dream may still be within reach.