The Baltimore Orioles have signed top reliever to contract, the team have announce. The deal also includes a club option for the 2026 season.
While financial terms were not officially disclosed, reports indicate that he will earn $9 million in 2025, with a $9 million team option for 2026 and a $1 million buyout.
The 34-year-old right-hander, posted a 5-5 record with a 2.80 ERA and one save last season while pitching for the St. Louis Cardinals. He struck out 67 batters and walked 20 over 70⅔ innings. Before joining the Cardinals, Andrew Kittredge spent seven seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays and holds a career record of 23-12 with a 3.44 ERA in 240 relief appearances and 15 starts.
The Orioles’ bullpen could see a significant boost with the potential return of closer Félix Bautista, who missed last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. While Craig Kimbrel was initially signed to fill that role, his struggles led to his release before the season concluded. Now, Kittredge provides another reliable late-inning option. Although his ground ball rate has declined in recent years, it could still work to his advantage at Camden Yards, especially with the left-field wall being moved in slightly for 2025.
Baltimore’s rotation took a hit with the departure of ace Corbin Burnes in free agency. The Orioles have remained active but cautious in the market, signing veterans Charlie Morton, Gary Sánchez, Tomoyuki Sugano, and now Kittredge to one-year contracts. They also made a longer-term commitment to outfielder Tyler O’Neill on a three-year deal that includes a player opt-out after 2025.