Orioles Pitcher Drawing Trade Interest Placed On Injured List

Major League Baseball’s trade deadline is one week away, and the Boston Red Sox continue to be connected to a handful of Baltimore Orioles players as they seek upgrades at first base and in the starting rotation.

The Red Sox’s interest in Orioles’ All-Star first baseman/designated hitter Ryan O’Hearn has reportedly remained strong, and with Abraham Toro and Romy González beginning to scuffle a bit recently following a hot stretch at the plate, Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow could revisit a deal to acquire the eight-year MLB veteran.

Another Orioles player reported to be available at the deadline is All-Star closer Félix Bautista. The hard-throwing right-hander has compiled 19 saves and a 2.60 ERA in 35 appearances this season, and has previously been connected to teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, who are reportedly searching for help at the back end of their bullpen following the 80-game suspension of José Alvarado in May.

That said, the Orioles placed Bautista on the 15-day injured list on Thursday with right shoulder discomfort after laboring through a 35-pitch relief appearance on Sunday. The concerning and untimely injury will likely have an impact on the trade market for relief pitchers, as he was considered to be one of the closers more likely to be dealt before the deadline arrives next week.

With Bautista now off the market, the cost to acquire alternatives such as David Bednar and Raisel Iglesias will certainly be much higher as teams look for bullpen help over the next week.