The Baltimore Orioles won three out of four games against the New York Yankees this week and took sole possession of the top spot in the AL East.
With a 20-11 record, the O’s are second in the American League behind the 20-10 Cleveland Guardians.
They did most of that without key pieces in the rotation such as John Means and Kyle Bradish.
They just got the latter back from an elbow injury diagnosed in spring training.
It’s fair to say Bradish didn’t miss a beat.
“Kyle Bradish in his first start back: 4.2 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 5 Ks, 2 BB. THE O’s GOT THEIR GUY BACK,” MLB reporter Kam Brice tweeted.
Kyle Bradish in his first start back:
4.2 IP
1 ER
4 H
5 Ks
2 BBTHE O’s GOT THEIR GUY BACK🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/YjnAyzX8AC
— 𝙆am Brice (@kambrice1tv) May 2, 2024
Bradish is one of the most talented pitchers on the Orioles, and that’s saying a lot considering the names he has to compete with: Corbin Burnes, Grayson Rodriguez, Means, Cole Irvin, Tyler Wells, and more.
Last year, he posted the numbers of an ace, highlighted by a 2.83 ERA and 168 strikeouts in 168.2 innings.
The elbow injury he suffered was thought to be much more serious and knock him out for the season.
Instead, he made a miraculous recovery and showed on Thursday that he is ready to dominate.
He baffled the Yankees for 4.2 innings, and conceded a single run.
He struck out five batters, and helped his team secure an important victory.
Now that Rodriguez has been placed on the injured list, having Bradish back and slowly ramping up his pitch count is crucial.
Baltimore will need him if they are going to keep the Yankees at bay.
