The Baltimore Orioles could soon see a boost in talent as several injured players approach their returns. Over the weekend, they took the first step by reinstating former top prospect Heston Kjerstad and reliever Jacob Webb, both of whom had been out for a while due to injuries.
To make room, they designated infielder Nick Maton and pitcher Cole Irvin for assignment. Right now, Webb may be the more crucial addition for the team, particularly given the bullpen’s ongoing struggles as they head toward October. Their relief pitching has been inconsistent, posting a 4.62 ERA in the second half, ranking them 23rd in the MLB. This performance has worsened, with a 4.69 ERA in August and 5.08 so far this month.
He has allowed only one earned run to lefties and holds them to a .125 batting average. If he’s healthy and performing at his best, the Orioles have gained a significant asset.
Kjerstad’s return is also promising, provided he has recovered from the concussion-like symptoms he experienced after being hit in the head by a pitch from the Yankees in July. While he may not play a large role as the season winds down, he adds depth as a power-hitting option capable of playing well in the outfield corners.
In other news, Aaron Judge expressed frustration with Gleyber Torres following the Yankees’ loss to the Orioles on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees were trailing 4-2 with runners on second and third and two outs in the seventh inning when Juan Soto’s single scored the runner from third. This blunder prevented Judge, who was on deck, from having a chance to deliver a game-changing hit.
After the game, Judge called Torres’ mistake unacceptable, stating, “We can’t keep shooting ourselves in the foot with mistakes like that on the basepaths. But it happened, and we’ve got to move on and get ready for tomorrow.” Judge’s remarks come as Torres has faced criticism from other teammates for similar errors this season. Adding insult to injury, the Orioles celebrated clinching a playoff spot on the Yankees’ home turf.
