The Orioles' recent string of injuries has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, with several key relievers set to undergo further evaluation. Left-hander Keegan Akin, who has struggled with a groin strain and an elbow issue, is meeting with Dr. Keith Meister for a second opinion. His performance has taken a significant dip, with a 5.68 ERA and a 15% strikeout rate, a stark contrast to his previous two seasons. This underperformance, coupled with his injury, makes him a less appealing trade candidate, even if the Orioles decide to sell at the deadline.
Closer Ryan Helsley, on the other hand, is sidelined by an elbow injury for the second time this year. His two-year, $28MM contract has not lived up to expectations, with only 15 1/3 innings pitched and a 9.00 ERA. However, his strong strikeout rate of 31% and the fact that he is in his final year of arbitration make him an interesting case. If he can make a quick recovery and have an excellent finish to the season, he may be able to lock in his $14MM player option for next year.
Right-hander Colin Selby, who has been on the 60-day injured list all season, is set to visit Dr. Neal ElAttrache for a re-examination of his shoulder injury. The Orioles' general manager, Mike Elias, has stated that it is unlikely that Selby will be back anytime soon, and the team will not have an official timetable until his re-examination. Selby's future with the team is uncertain, and his impact this year is in doubt.
These injuries have created a void in the Orioles' bullpen, with Tyler Wells, Yennier Cano, and Rico Garcia all stepping up to fill the gap. Any of these three could be plausible trade candidates if the Orioles don't right the ship. However, the team's focus is on getting healthy and making the most of the remaining season.
In non-playing news, the Orioles have hired former big leaguer Ross Detwiler as a roving pitching instructor in the upper minors. Detwiler, who pitched for 14 seasons in the big leagues, will replace Thomas Eshelman, who accepted a pitching coach job at TCU. The Orioles' decision to bring in Detwiler is an interesting one, and it will be interesting to see how he impacts the team's young pitchers.
In conclusion, the Orioles' injuries have created a challenging situation, but the team is taking steps to address the issue. With the deadline approaching, the team will need to make some tough decisions, and the future of several key players is uncertain. The Orioles' focus is on getting healthy and making the most of the remaining season, and it will be interesting to see how they navigate this challenging period.
