Exciting News: Orioles Ink Deal with Pitcher Kyle Gibson!

The Orioles made waves recently by signing Kyle Gibson to a one-year deal. The contract is worth $5.25 million, with an extra $1.525 million available through performance bonuses, which includes payments based on the number of games he starts. To make room for him on the roster, Baltimore placed Kyle Bradish on the 60-day injured list after his elbow surgery last June.

Gibson is a familiar face, having already spent a season with the Orioles. He’s known for being reliable and durable, which makes him a great addition to the lineup. During his last season with Baltimore, he pitched 192 innings over 33 starts, achieving a 4.73 earned run average and notching 157 strikeouts.

After spending the previous season with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he had a respectable 4.24 ERA over 169 2/3 innings, Gibson is looking to continue his solid performance. He logged nine seasons in the MLB with at least 29 starts and over 150 innings per season, an impressive feat that highlights his durability. In the last three years, he hasn’t been on the injured list, and he ranks eighth among all pitchers in total innings pitched over the past four seasons.

Unfortunately, Gibson won’t be ready for Opening Day. While he’s been throwing side sessions, he’ll need more preparation akin to a traditional Spring Training regimen. Orioles manager Brandon Hyde mentioned that it’s uncertain whether Gibson will agree to an optional assignment in the minors or start the season on the injured list.

This signing marks the third older starting pitcher acquired by the Orioles this season. Alongside Gibson, they signed Charlie Morton for $15 million and Tomoyuki Sugano for $13 million, both of whom are also seen as back-end options in the rotation.

Injuries have been a concern for the Orioles. Grayson Rodriguez recently received a cortisone shot for elbow inflammation and will miss the start of the season. The current rotation will lean on Zach Eflin, Morton, Sugano, and Dean Kremer for the time being. There’s also a competition between Albert Suárez and Cade Povich for a spot in the lineup until Gibson is fully ready.

In a league where health and consistency are crucial, Gibson’s long track record of durability shines. His ability to throw significant innings could be pivotal for the Orioles this season. As they navigate roster changes and injuries, having someone like Gibson in the lineup provides a stable foundation for their pitching staff.

For more on the dynamics of player contracts in baseball, you can check out the insights from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic here.

Source link

kyle bradish,kyle gibson