Craig Kimbrel had a chance to secure his ninth save of the season for the Baltimore Orioles and the 426th of his career. He threw a fastball down the middle to Eddie Rosario, a veteran player for the Washington Nationals. Rosario hit the ball 413 feet to center field.
The Orioles were leading 3-2 with two outs in the ninth inning. However, Kimbrel threw an ankle-high fastball for ball four to Trey Lipscomb, the Nationals’ No. 9 hitter. Kimbrel showed frustration by slapping the mound. This led to a walk to Jacob Young.
Manager Brandon Hyde walked to the mound and took the ball from Kimbrel, making it the second consecutive outing in which Kimbrel was removed in the ninth inning while Baltimore was still ahead.
Despite these challenges, the Orioles managed to win both games. After their 7-6 victory over the Nationals in 12 innings on Wednesday night, Hyde stated that he would continue to use Kimbrel in save situations.
However, Baltimore’s plan to replace last year’s dominant closer, Félix Bautista, with one of the best relievers in major league history hasn’t been smooth so far.
“We’re going to stick with him. This guy has a great track record. He’s a Hall of Famer, and we need to help him improve,” Hyde said. “It’s important that we help him improve.”
The last two weeks have been tough for Kimbrel, with just one save in five appearances. He struggled in a series against the Oakland Athletics, blowing two saves that led to losses. In one game, he threw six consecutive balls at the start, convinced his manager to let him continue, but then gave up a two-run homer.
Kimbrel took a break due to back tightness and returned to form in a game against Cincinnati, striking out all three batters he faced. However, in the next game, he struggled again, allowing two runs before being replaced by another pitcher.
His troubles continued in a game against the Nationals, where he had a rough performance that led to a chaotic finish. Jacob Webb, another Orioles pitcher, got the save. Kimbrel did not talk to the media after the game.
