The Mountain Returns: Félix Bautista’s Potential Impact
During the 2023 MLB season, the Baltimore Orioles suffered a massive blow when they lost star closer Félix Bautista. Bautista, in the midst of one of the most dominant seasons in MLB history for a closing pitcher, went down with an injury to his right elbow. After undergoing Tommy John surgery, the Orioles had no dominant closer for the 2024 MLB season. Now, excitement is brewing amongst Orioles fans as Bautista recently made his highly anticipated return to the mound.
In 2024, the Orioles had a problem trying to replace Bautista. His initial replacement, Craig Kimbrel, had his worst season in the MLB. After subpar results, Kimbrel was released by the Orioles late into the 2024 regular season. Orioles management moved other relievers into the closing role, such as Yennier Cano, Jacob Webb, and Cionel Pérez; however, none had the same effect as Bautista. Luckily, the Orioles have their closer back as Félix Bautista has made his return to pitching.
Félix Bautista pitched an inning against the Red Sox, his first since August 25th, 2023. The former all-star was lights-out as he had two strikeouts and did not allow a single hit. You could not have asked for more from Bautista in his Grapefruit League debut. Bautista maxed out his fastball at 97 mph, a great sign for a pitcher returning from Tommy John surgery. Even though it was slightly lower than his usual max velocity, which sits around 99-100 mph, you can bet on Bautista to be back to his usual velocity by the start of the regular season.
Getting Félix Bautista back was a massive plus for the Orioles. If Bautista can replicate his 2023 season, he could be the key difference-maker for the Orioles. Tommy John surgery is nothing to scoff at, especially for a power pitcher like Bautista. Orioles management has been conservative when it comes to Bautista, doing everything they can to keep Bautista healthy. In the Orioles, last two playoff runs, Félix Bautista wasn't available for either. Having a lights-out closer can not only help get you to the playoffs but also make a deep run, which is exactly what the Orioles are hoping to achieve with Bautista's return.
