In a surprising move that has caught the attention of baseball fans and analysts alike, the Baltimore Orioles have assigned former Atlanta Braves closer Craig Kimbrel to a new role within their organization. The 35-year-old veteran, known for his electric fastball and trademark pre-pitch stance, has had an illustrious career, making him one of the most dominant closers in the history of Major League Baseball (MLB). Kimbrel’s arrival in Baltimore signals a new chapter for both the player and the Orioles, who are looking to solidify their bullpen after a strong 2023 season.
Kimbrel’s MLB career has been nothing short of remarkable. Over his time with teams like the Braves, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and most recently, the Philadelphia Phillies, Kimbrel has racked up over 400 career saves, placing him among the all-time greats in that category. His ability to consistently dominate hitters, especially in high-leverage situations, has earned him eight All-Star selections and a World Series ring with the Red Sox in 2018. However, Kimbrel’s recent performances have been mixed, with signs of declining velocity and control issues. This has led many to wonder what role he will play with the Orioles moving forward.
Initial reports suggest that Kimbrel’s assignment with the Orioles may not be in the closer role he has occupied for most of his career. Instead, the Orioles are considering utilizing him in a setup capacity, where his experience and leadership can benefit younger bullpen arms. With rising stars like Félix Bautista and Yennier Cano already in Baltimore’s bullpen, Kimbrel’s presence could provide mentorship and stability, particularly during late-inning pressure situations.
Alternatively, there is speculation that the Orioles might be experimenting with Kimbrel as a veteran presence to anchor the middle innings, or perhaps even as an “opener” in select games, where he could pitch the first few innings before handing the game over to a long reliever. This would be a significant shift from his traditional role but could maximize his current skill set.
Regardless of the specific role, Kimbrel’s presence on the Orioles brings significant depth to their bullpen. Baltimore’s young team is poised to build on its success from the past season, and the addition of a seasoned veteran like Kimbrel can only boost their chances of contending in the competitive American League East. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Orioles deploy their newest acquisition and what impact Kimbrel will have as he transitions to his new role.