Orioles Closer Felix Bautista Hits IL with Shoulder Discomfort

The Baltimore Orioles just took a tough hit to their bullpen. Closer Félix Bautista landed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder discomfort.

This twist leaves the Orioles scrambling to adjust their pitching strategy. With the playoffs out of reach, Bautista’s injury might nudge them further toward selling at the trade deadline.

Bautista’s Right Shoulder Discomfort: What We Know

Bautista’s injury came during Wednesday’s gut-wrenching 3-2 loss to the Cleveland Guardians. Interim manager Tony Mansolino said Bautista started feeling discomfort as he warmed up in the bullpen.

The pain forced the 30-year-old to stop his routine, and the team quickly put him on the injured list for more tests. He’ll get an MRI when the Orioles return to Baltimore on Friday, which should tell us more about what’s really going on.

A Closer Look at Félix Bautista’s 2025 Season

Bautista has been one of the Orioles’ few reliable arms this year. He’s known for his electric stuff and has racked up 19 saves, tying him for sixth in the American League.

Even though he hasn’t pitched as much lately, his numbers jump off the page: a 2.60 ERA, a 1-1 record, and opponents barely hitting .134 against him. He’s struck out 50 and walked 23 over 34 2/3 innings, shutting down lineups when it counts.

This shoulder issue is another rough patch for Bautista, who missed all of 2024 recovering from Tommy John surgery. His injury history and limited outings do make you wonder about his durability in the long run.

Orioles’ Bullpen Adjustments: Who Steps Up in Bautista’s Absence?

With Bautista out, the Orioles will try a closer-by-committee approach. Interim manager Tony Mansolino looks set to lean on Seranthony Dominguez and Yennier Cano to fill the gap.

Dominguez brings a big fastball and plenty of late-game experience, so he might get most of the closing chances. Cano’s versatility adds another wrinkle, giving Mansolino some tactical options in tight spots.

Can a Committee Approach Stabilize a Struggling Team?

Going with a committee in the ninth inning is always a gamble. The manager has to make quick calls and hope each guy delivers in high-pressure moments.

If Dominguez or Cano struggle under the spotlight, closing out close games could get even tougher. For a team already out of wild-card contention, that’s a pretty big concern.

Impact on Trade Deadline Plans

Bautista’s injury only makes the Orioles look more like sellers as the July 31 trade deadline approaches. They’re likely to explore deals for key players, hoping to bring in prospects or add depth elsewhere.

Bautista’s under team control through 2028, and he’s arbitration-eligible after this season, so he’s a valuable piece. Still, this injury probably dings his immediate trade value.

Who Could Be on the Move?

The Orioles might shop some veteran bullpen arms or consider moving underperforming hitters. Bautista’s injury limits his trade chances, but the team should still look to get something out of the rest of their roster.

They’ve clearly shifted focus toward rebuilding, aiming for long-term growth in a tough AL East. It’s not what fans hoped for, but sometimes you’ve just got to play the hand you’re dealt.

What’s Next for the Orioles?

The Orioles find themselves in a tough spot as they deal with Bautista’s injury and a string of losses. Friday’s MRI should give everyone a better idea about Bautista’s condition.

Meanwhile, the bullpen’s got to step up without him. Mansolino faces a real test, trying to shuffle player roles and adjust to the chaos of the closer-by-committee approach.

For Orioles fans, Bautista’s injury just feels like another punch in the gut. Still, maybe there’s a little hope if the trade deadline brings in some new faces and shakes things up.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Orioles place closer Bautista (shoulder) on IL