The Baltimore Orioles have officially announced the signing of veteran reliever Andrew Kittredge to a one-year, $10 million contract, solidifying thier bullpen for the upcoming season. The deal, first reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, includes a $9 million salary for 2025 and a $1 million buyout on a $9 million club option for 2026. This move comes as the Orioles aim to bolster their pitching staff ahead of a competitive season in the American League.
Kittredge,a seasoned right-hander,is expected to step into a setup role in front of star closer Félix Bautista,who is set to return from Tommy john surgery. The 34-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having previously excelled in high-leverage situations with the St. Louis Cardinals. Last season, he led the National league with 37 holds, finishing second in MLB behind Houston’s Bryan Abreu. His ability to consistently perform in the seventh and eighth innings makes him a valuable addition to manager Brandon Hyde’s bullpen.
The Orioles’ bullpen now features a formidable mix of arms, including Seranthony Domínguez, Yennier Cano, and Keegan Akin, alongside Kittredge. This depth will be crucial as the team looks to navigate a grueling schedule and compete for a playoff spot. Kittredge’s 2024 campaign with the Cardinals showcased his reliability, as he posted a 2.80 ERA over 70 2/3 innings, striking out 23.3% of batters faced while maintaining a modest 7% walk rate. His ability to miss bats (13.7% whiff rate) and induce ground balls further underscores his effectiveness.
The signing also highlights the Orioles’ strategic approach to roster construction. With a full 40-man roster,the team will need to make a corresponding move to finalize Kittredge’s contract. This addition signals Baltimore’s commitment to building a competitive bullpen capable of supporting their young, dynamic lineup.
Key Details of Andrew Kittredge’s Contract
Table of Contents
| contract Term | Salary (2025) | Buyout (2026) | Club Option (2026) |
|——————–|——————-|——————-|————————|
| 1 year | $9 million | $1 million | $9 million |
Kittredge’s arrival in Baltimore marks a new chapter for the veteran pitcher, who has previously played for the Tampa Bay Rays and St. Louis Cardinals. His experience and consistency will be invaluable as the Orioles aim to make a deep postseason run. Fans can expect Kittredge to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap to bautista, ensuring the team’s late-inning success.
For more updates on the Orioles’ offseason moves, stay tuned to MLB Trade Rumors and follow Ken Rosenthal on The Athletic.Andrew Kittredge’s pitching Prowess and Platoon Challenges: A Deep Dive into the Orioles’ Bullpen Strategy
As the Baltimore Orioles gear up for the 2025 season, one name stands out in their bullpen strategy: Andrew Kittredge. The 35-year-old reliever, acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays, brings a wealth of experience and a unique pitching arsenal to the table. However, his recent performance reveals a glaring vulnerability against left-handed hitters, raising questions about how manager Brandon Hyde will deploy him in high-leverage situations.
Kittredge’s Dominance Against Righties
Kittredge’s success against right-handed batters is nothing short of extraordinary. Last season, he held righties to a meager .188/.247/.291 slash line across 183 plate appearances. His ability to induce weak contact and generate swings outside the strike zone has been a hallmark of his game.Opponents swung at nearly 42% of his pitches outside the zone, a rate surpassed only by arizona’s Joe Mantiply among pitchers with 50+ innings.
Kittredge’s slider is his go-to weapon, accounting for roughly half of his pitches. Batters hit just .177 against it, whiffing on over 40% of their swings. Combined with a sinker and four-seam fastball that sit in the 94-95 MPH range, Kittredge’s arsenal is designed to keep hitters off balance.
The Left-Handed Hitter Conundrum
While Kittredge thrives against righties, his struggles against left-handed batters are well-documented.Last season, lefties teed off at a.296/.337/.571 clip, including six home runs in just 104 plate appearances. This platoon split isn’t new; over his career, left-handed hitters have posted a solid .244/.320/.455 line against him in more than 400 plate appearances.
This vulnerability is a common issue for pitchers who rely heavily on a slider-sinker combination. The Orioles,however,have a potential solution in their bullpen. With southpaws Keegan Akin, gregory Soto, and Cionel Pérez all expected to secure roster spots, Hyde has the flexibility to shield Kittredge from opposing lineups’ most dangerous left-handed hitters.
A Proven Track Record
Despite his platoon challenges,Kittredge’s overall track record is undeniably strong. He debuted with the Rays in 2017 and spent seven seasons in Tampa Bay’s bullpen, earning an All-Star nod in 2021 after posting a career-best 1.88 ERA over 71 2/3 innings. His breakout season showcased his ability to handle high-leverage situations, making him a valuable asset for any team.However, Kittredge’s career hit a snag in 2022 when he underwent Tommy John surgery after an elbow injury. The timing of his recovery has been a key factor in his recent performance, but his resilience and experience make him a reliable option for the Orioles’ bullpen.
Key Takeaways: Kittredge’s Role in 2025
As the Orioles prepare for the upcoming season, Kittredge’s role will likely hinge on how Hyde manages his platoon splits.His dominance against right-handed hitters makes him a valuable late-inning option, but his struggles against lefties could limit his usage in certain matchups.
Hear’s a rapid summary of Kittredge’s 2024 performance:
| Statistic | vs. Right-Handed Hitters | vs. Left-Handed Hitters |
|————————-|——————————|—————————–|
| Batting Average | .188 | .296 |
| On-Base Percentage | .247 | .337 |
| Slugging Percentage | .291 | .571 |
| Home Runs Allowed | N/A | 6 |
Looking Ahead
Kittredge’s ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations will be crucial for the Orioles as they aim to contend in a competitive AL East. With a bullpen featuring a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talent, Hyde has the tools to maximize Kittredge’s strengths while mitigating his weaknesses.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Kittredge and the Orioles’ bullpen navigate the challenges of modern baseball. Will Kittredge’s slider continue to baffle right-handed hitters? Can the Orioles’ southpaws provide the necessary support to offset his platoon splits? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Andrew Kittredge remains a key piece of Baltimore’s pitching puzzle.
For more insights on the Orioles’ bullpen strategy and player performance, stay tuned to MLB Trade Rumors.
Baltimore Orioles Bolster Roster with Key Free Agent Signings Under New Ownership
The Baltimore Orioles are making waves this offseason, signaling a shift in their approach under first-year owner David Rubenstein. With a series of strategic free agent signings, the Orioles have added depth and experience to their roster, aiming to complement their young core of position players. The moves mark a departure from the team’s recent frugality, as they commit $63 million to free agents, including a notable three-year deal for outfielder Tyler O’Neill.
A New Era for the Orioles
Under previous owner john Angelos, the Orioles were known for their cautious spending and reluctance to make meaningful long-term commitments. However, the arrival of David Rubenstein has ushered in a more aggressive approach.The team has focused on adding veteran talent through short-term deals, avoiding lengthy contracts while still addressing key needs.
According to RosterResource, the Orioles’ 2025 payroll is projected to reach $156 million, their highest since 2017. This increase reflects the team’s willingness to invest in proven players to support their emerging stars.
Key Additions to the Roster
The Orioles’ offseason strategy has centered around bolstering their pitching staff and adding offensive firepower. Here’s a breakdown of their major signings:
| Player | Position | Contract Details |
|———————-|————|——————————–|
| Tyler O’Neill | Outfielder | 3 years, $49.5MM (opt-out after Year 1) |
| Charlie Morton | Pitcher | 1 year, $15MM |
| Tomoyuki Sugano | Pitcher | 1 year, $13MM |
| Gary Sánchez | Catcher | 1 year, $8.5MM |
| Andrew Kittredge | Pitcher | 1 year, $6.5MM |
Tyler O’Neill: The Centerpiece
The Orioles’ most significant acquisition is outfielder Tyler O’Neill, who signed a three-year, $49.5 million contract with an opt-out clause after the first season. O’Neill, known for his power and defensive prowess, brings a dynamic presence to Baltimore’s lineup. His ability to impact games both at the plate and in the field makes him a cornerstone of the team’s offseason strategy.
Strengthening the Pitching Staff
Baltimore has also focused on adding experienced arms to their rotation and bullpen. Charlie Morton, a veteran right-hander, joins the team on a one-year, $15 million deal. Morton’s postseason experience and consistent performance make him a valuable addition to the rotation.
japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano signed a one-year, $13 million contract, bringing his elite command and durability to the Orioles’ staff. Meanwhile, reliever Andrew Kittredge inked a one-year, $6.5 million deal after a strong season with the St. Louis Cardinals. Kittredge boasts a 2.48 ERA over his last 162 appearances, making him one of the most reliable bullpen arms available in free agency.
Gary Sánchez: A Power Bat behind the Plate
The Orioles also addressed their catching needs by signing Gary Sánchez to a one-year, $8.5 million contract. Sánchez, known for his power-hitting ability, provides a significant offensive upgrade at the position. His presence will also help mentor the team’s younger players.
A Calculated Approach
while the Orioles have been active in free agency, they’ve avoided long-term commitments. Tyler O’Neill is the only player on the roster with a guaranteed contract extending beyond the 2025 season. This approach allows the team to remain flexible while still making meaningful upgrades.
The Orioles’ strategy reflects a balance between investing in the present and preserving financial flexibility for the future. By adding veteran talent on short-term deals, they aim to compete in the near term without jeopardizing their long-term plans.
Looking Ahead
With a projected payroll of $156 million, the Orioles are poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 season. The combination of their young core and veteran additions creates a roster with both talent and experience. As the team continues to build under David Rubenstein’s ownership, fans can expect a more competitive and ambitious Orioles squad in the years to come.
Image courtesy of USA Today Sports.
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Prowess and Platoon Challenges: A Deep Dive into the Orioles’ Bullpen Strategy
As the Baltimore Orioles gear up for the 2025 season, one name stands out in their bullpen strategy: Andrew Kittredge. The 35-year-old reliever, acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays, brings a wealth of experience and a unique pitching arsenal to the table. However, his recent performance reveals a glaring vulnerability against left-handed hitters, raising questions about how manager Brandon Hyde will deploy him in high-leverage situations.
Kittredge’s Dominance Against Righties
Kittredge’s success against right-handed batters is nothing short of extraordinary. Last season, he held righties to a meager .188/.247/.291 slash line across 183 plate appearances. His ability to induce weak contact and generate swings outside the strike zone has been a hallmark of his game. Opponents swung at nearly 42% of his pitches outside the zone, a rate surpassed only by Arizona’s Joe Mantiply among pitchers with 50+ innings.
Kittredge’s slider is his go-to weapon, accounting for roughly half of his pitches. Batters hit just .177 against it, whiffing on over 40% of their swings.Combined with a sinker and four-seam fastball that sit in the 94-95 MPH range, kittredge’s arsenal is designed to keep hitters off balance.
The Left-Handed Hitter Conundrum
While Kittredge thrives against righties, his struggles against left-handed batters are well-documented. Last season, lefties teed off at a .296/.337/.571 clip, including six home runs in just 104 plate appearances. This platoon split isn’t new; over his career, left-handed hitters have posted a solid .244/.320/.455 line against him in more than 400 plate appearances.
This vulnerability is a common issue for pitchers who rely heavily on a slider-sinker combination. The Orioles, however, have a potential solution in their bullpen. With southpaws Keegan Akin,Gregory Soto,and cionel Pérez all expected to secure roster spots,Hyde has the flexibility to shield Kittredge from opposing lineups’ most dangerous left-handed hitters.
A Proven Track Record
Despite his platoon challenges, Kittredge’s overall track record is undeniably strong. He debuted with the rays in 2017 and spent seven seasons in Tampa Bay’s bullpen, earning an All-Star nod in 2021 after posting a career-best 1.88 ERA over 71 2/3 innings. his breakout season showcased his ability to handle high-leverage situations, making him a valuable asset for any team.
However, Kittredge’s career hit a snag in 2022 when he underwent Tommy John surgery after an elbow injury. The timing of his recovery has been a key factor in his recent performance, but his resilience and experience make him a reliable option for the Orioles’ bullpen.
Key Takeaways: Kittredge’s Role in 2025
As the Orioles prepare for the upcoming season,Kittredge’s role will likely hinge on how Hyde manages his platoon splits. His dominance against right-handed hitters makes him a valuable late-inning option,but his struggles against lefties could limit his usage in certain matchups.
Here’s a rapid summary of Kittredge’s 2024 performance:
| statistic | vs. Right-Handed Hitters | vs. Left-Handed Hitters |
|————————–|——————————|—————————–|
| Batting Average | .188 | .296 |
| On-Base Percentage | .247 | .337 |
| Slugging Percentage |.291 | .571 |
| Home Runs Allowed | N/A | 6 |
Looking Ahead
Kittredge’s ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations will be crucial for the Orioles as they aim to contend in a competitive AL East. With a bullpen featuring a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talent, Hyde has the tools to maximize Kittredge’s strengths while mitigating his weaknesses.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Kittredge and the Orioles’ bullpen navigate the challenges of modern baseball. Will Kittredge’s slider continue to baffle right-handed hitters? Can the Orioles’ southpaws provide the necessary support to offset his platoon splits? Only time will tell,but one thing is certain: Andrew Kittredge remains a key piece of Baltimore’s pitching puzzle.
For more insights on the Orioles’ bullpen strategy and player performance, stay tuned to MLB Trade Rumors.
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