Just returned from Tommy John surgery! Orioles' closer faces another operation and may miss next season.

The Baltimore Orioles announced today (21st) that Félix Bautista, their closer who missed the entire last season due to right elbow ligament replacement surgery (Tommy John), will undergo surgery to repair his right shoulder’s rotator cuff and labrum. He is expected to be sidelined for at least 12 months, likely ending his next season prematurely.

At 30 years old, Bautista had an impressive rookie season in 2022, appearing in 65 games with 13 holds, 15 saves, and a 2.19 ERA. In 2023, he pitched in 56 games, posting an 8-2 record, a 1.48 ERA, and 33 saves, earning his first All-Star selection and being named the American League’s top reliever. However, he underwent Tommy John surgery at the end of that season due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, causing him to miss all of 2024. This year, after rehab, he returned to the mound in 35 games with a 1-1 record, 2.60 ERA, 19 saves, and 50 strikeouts, while holding batters to a .134 average, gradually regaining his peak form.

However, in late July during pre-game warmups, he experienced discomfort in his right shoulder. An examination revealed inflammation, and the team promptly placed him on the injured list. Interim manager Tony Mansolino admitted the outlook was not good, and now with surgery confirmed, Bautista faces another long road to recovery.

This season, the Orioles have struggled, holding a 59-67 record as of today, ranking last in the AL East. With Bautista expected to be out long-term and several relievers traded away before the deadline, how the Orioles will rebuild bullpen depth will be a critical focus during the offseason.