The Baltimore Orioles’ rising star pitcher Grayson Rodriguez has been placed on the disabled list with discomfort in his right shoulder. His IL placement is effective as of April 30. In a related move, former All-Star John Means has been activated. It is anticipated that Means will replace Rodriguez in the rotation.
With a 4-1 record and a 3.71 ERA in six starts, the 24-year-old Rodriguez had a great start to the season. He has pitched 34.0 innings and struck out 37 batters. However, veteran and former All-Star Means, 31, is expected to make a comeback to strengthen the Orioles pitching staff. In addition, Kyle Bradish, another important pitcher for the Orioles and their best starter in 2023, is nearing his comeback from the injured list and will soon make his season debut. With a 12-7 record and a 2.83 ERA, Bradish placed fourth in the AL Cy Young Award voting for the previous season.
In an effort to keep their competitive advantage throughout the season, the Orioles are taking calculated risks in order to manage the rotations and injuries to their pitching staff. There is currently no stated return date for Grayson Rodriguez’s injury. He must, however, complete the necessary recuperation and rehabilitation before being allowed to resume his pitching responsibilities.