Orioles to star will not pitch for the remainder of the year, marking another challenge for the injury-stricken Baltimore Orioles as they prepare for the postseason.
Rodriguez, the team’s No. 2 starter, has been sidelined since early August due to right lat discomfort. As recently as last week, the Orioles were optimistic about his return before October. However, on Wednesday, manager Brandon Hyde announced that Rodriguez will be shut down and miss the playoffs.
“He was progressing well,” Hyde said at Yankee Stadium. “This type of injury usually takes time, and rushing him back for the playoffs wasn’t ideal. We decided this was the best move for his health and long-term future.”
Rodriguez had a strong season, posting a 13-4 record with a 3.86 ERA across 20 starts. He recorded 130 strikeouts and 36 walks over 116 2/3 innings. “It’s a big loss. We’ve definitely missed him,” Hyde added.
Once a top prospect, Rodriguez now holds a career record of 20-8 with a 4.11 ERA in 43 starts.
“We’re focusing on getting him ready for 2025,” Hyde said. “It’s disappointing, but he’s an exceptional talent and a key part of our rotation moving forward. Unfortunately, we just ran out of time.”
Despite numerous injuries, especially to their pitching staff, the Orioles clinched their second consecutive playoff berth on Tuesday. They are guaranteed at least an American League wild card spot and are poised to host a best-of-three Wild Card Series next week at Camden Yards.
Pitchers Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells are all recovering from Tommy John surgery, along with All-Star closer Félix Bautista, who will miss the entire season.
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