REPORT: Orioles Considering To Add 3 relievers under-the-radar at trade deadline
The trade deadline is rapidly approaching, and the Orioles have significant gaps to address. While the starting rotation has been a hot topic lately, the bullpen also needs reinforcements. Here are three lesser-known bullpen arms that could bolster the Orioles’ relief corps.
Rangers’ reliever David Robertson would be a strong addition to an inexperienced Orioles bullpen
The 2023 World Series Champion Texas Rangers have faced a challenging first half in 2024, currently holding a 38-46 record and trailing eight games in the Wild Card race. If their performance doesn’t improve soon, the Rangers might consider trading some of their veteran players. David Robertson stands out as a prime trade candidate.
David Robertson is the only pitcher this season to strike out Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman in succession.
He's done it in back-to-back games. pic.twitter.com/5RRl51XBB8
— MLB (@MLB) June 14, 2024
This season, the Rangers’ bullpen has struggled, ranking fifth worst in bullpen ERA in the majors. However, Robertson has been a standout performer. At 39 years old, he continues to excel as a setup man, boasting a 3.34 ERA and 54 strikeouts in just 35 innings. Known for his strikeout ability, Robertson’s 13.89 K/9 rate is the highest of his 16-year career. His advanced metrics are also impressive, with a 37.5% strikeout rate placing him in the 99th percentile, and his ground ball rates and expected ERA in the 91st percentile.
Additionally, Robertson brings a wealth of postseason experience, with a 3.04 ERA in 47.1 innings pitched. With 176 career saves, he could easily step in if Craig Kimbrel encounters another rough patch. Robertson would be a cost-effective and productive addition to the Orioles’ bullpen.
Pending free agent Carlos Estevez could be the setup man the Orioles need
Like Robertson, Carlos Estevez has been a standout performer in an otherwise struggling bullpen. With the Angels well out of postseason contention, they are expected to be clear sellers at the trade deadline, making Estevez a likely candidate for a trade.
An All-Star in 2023, Estevez has continued his strong performance in 2024, posting a 3.00 ERA with 27 strikeouts in 27 innings. His command has been exceptional, with only three walks allowed, resulting in an impressive 0.81 WHIP this season.
Estevez has served as the Angels’ primary closer, notching 47 saves over the past two seasons. While the Orioles don’t have an immediate need for a closer, adding another reliable option for the ninth inning could be beneficial.
What does Carlos Estévez have in common with Gerrit Cole and Spencer Strider? Low release point, straight GAS 😮💨
Tom Verducci highlights the Angels' new acquisition as they continue to make moves. #MLBTonight | @AlLeiter22 | @StephenNelson pic.twitter.com/tkL9Qs6af1
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 7, 2022
Rays setup man Jason Adam would provide a significant boost for the Orioles bullpen
Jason Adam would be a welcomed addition to the Orioles’ bullpen, but there could be some obstacles. Firstly, the Rays are a division rival, which might create hesitancy in making a trade. Additionally, the Rays are still in the playoff hunt, trailing just four games behind the second wild card spot. However, it’s worth noting that the Orioles and Rays have conducted trades before, most recently in 2022.
Adding Jason Adam would provide another high-quality setup option for Brandon Hyde. Adam is having an excellent season, boasting a 2.00 ERA in 36 innings pitched. Although his strikeout numbers are modest with 35 on the season, his whiff percentage is in the 96th percentile.
Adam features four extremely effective pitches, each holding opponents to a batting average below .200, resulting in just 19 hits allowed in 36 innings. Over the past three seasons with the Rays, Adam has consistently maintained an ERA below 3.00, including a remarkable 1.56 ERA in 2022. He has quietly been one of the most productive relievers in baseball during this period.