The Baltimore Orioles designated veteran closer Craig Kimbrel for assignment on Wednesday in a major shakeup by the American League contenders.
Baltimore, which has been ceding ground to the New York Yankees in the AL East ever since the All-Star break, had little choice. Kimbrel had a 5.33 earned-run average and six blown saves in 29 chances this season.
Although Kimbrel has 440 career saves — second among active pitchers and fifth all-time — the Orioles had little choice as they seek to establish their bullpen in anticipation of what they hope is a long October playoff run.
Kimbrel has played for the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies in a career that began in 2010.
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ARLINGTON, TX – JULY 20: Craig Kimbrel #46 of the Baltimore Orioles and teammate Adley Rutschman #35 celebrate the team’s win over the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on July 20, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. Kimbrel was designated for assignment.
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