“Swinging for the Fences: Orioles Net Reliever Andrew Kittredge in Surprise Signing”
**Orioles Sign Relief Pitcher Andrew Kittredge to a One-Year Deal**
The Baltimore Orioles have reached an agreement with free agent relief pitcher Andrew Kittredge on a one-year, $10 million contract, with a $9 million option for the 2026 season. The deal, reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, is a significant addition to the Orioles’ bullpen, which has been a major area of concern for the team in recent years.
Kittredge, 35, is expected to play a reserve role in front of star closer Felix Bautista, who is returning from Tommy John surgery. The addition of Kittredge joins a group of veteran free agents, including Seranthony Dominguez, Yenn.Kerski, and Keegan Akin, who will serve as potential high-leverage options in the Orioles’ bullpen.
In his first seven seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, Kittredge developed into a reliable and effective relief pitcher, earning a career 2.80 ERA and 23.3% strikeout rate. Last season, he pitched 70 2/3 innings, allowing just 2.80 ERA, and limited opposing hitters to a 7% walk rate and 13.7% strikeout rate.
At 35, Kittredge is not a flamethrower, but he relies on his devastating sinker-slider combination to get hitters out. He has a solid strikeout rate and does an excellent job of keeping the ball on the ground. His slider, in particular, has been instrumental in his success, with opponents batting just .177 against him when they swing at it.
One area where Kittredge has struggled is with left-handed hitters, who have posted a .309/.360/.515 slash line against him. However, the Orioles have three left-handed relief pitchers in Gregory Soto, Sealing Perez, and Keegan Akin, who can help mitigate this issue.
While Kittredge’s career platoon split isn’t drastic, the Orioles have options to protect him from some of the league’s most potent left-handed hitters. This signing is a solid move for the Orioles, who are looking to build a more well-rounded and effective bullpen.
**FAQs:**
Q: What is Andrew Kittredge’s role on the Orioles?
A: Kittredge is expected to play a reserve role in front of star closer Felix Bautista, serving as a high-leverage option in the Orioles’ bullpen.
Q: What is Andrew Kittredge’s track record?
A: Kittredge has a career 2.80 ERA and 23.3% strikeout rate, making him one of the most effective relief pitchers in the league.
Q: What is Andrew Kittredge’s platoon split?
A: Kittredge struggled with left-handed hitters, who posted a .309/.360/.515 slash line against him. However, the Orioles have options to protect him from some of the league’s most potent left-handed hitters.
Q: How much is Andrew Kittredge making?
A: Kittredge is making $10 million this season, with a $9 million option for the 2026 season.
**Conclusion:**
The signing of Andrew Kittredge is a significant addition to the Orioles’ bullpen, providing a reliable and effective relief option for their pitching staff. While he may not be a dominant force, Kittredge has a track record of success and will be a valuable asset for the Orioles during the 2025 season. With this signing, the Orioles have bolstered their bullpen and set themselves up for success in the coming season.
