The Baltimore Orioles return to Oriole Park at Camden Yards this evening as Arizona comes to town for three. Overall, it was a short road trip, but a good one. The Birds went 5-1 in Cincinnati and Washington.
The biggest question for the O’s right now appears to be closer Craig Kimbrel, who’s blown several saves over the past week-and-a-half. Will we see Kimbrel head to the IL with an injury? I suppose it’s possible. Needless to say, he doesn’t look comfortable on the mound when he’s out there.
To be clear, Kimbrel won’t cease to be on the roster. The Orioles won’t DFA him, allowing another team to pick him up on their dime. So that isn’t an option. Trading for another closer also isn’t an option, as nobody’s looking to trade a bona fide closer in May. And on top of that, could you imagine what the Orioles would have to give up to get someone like that? They don’t come free.
Here’s something else to watch; Jorge Mateo appeared to injure himself late in Wednesday’s game in Washington. He stayed in the game, but didn’t appear to be too comfortable. You have to hope he’s rested up on the off day and is ready to play.
The series with Arizona begins tonight at Camden Yards. Cole Irvin gets the start for the O’s, and he’ll be opposed by Arizona’s Brandon Pfaadt. Game time is set for just after 7 PM.
Birdland Crush 