Andrew Kittredge, a seasoned right-handed reliever, has agreed to a one-year, $10 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles, marking a significant enhancement to their bullpen for the 2025 MLB season. The deal includes a $9 million salary for the upcoming season and a $9 million team option for 2026, with a $1 million buyout. citeturn0search0
Career Overview
Kittredge, 34, has been a reliable presence in Major League Baseball since his debut in 2017. Over his career, he has amassed a 23-12 record with a 3.44 ERA, contributing to 240 relief appearances and 15 starts. Notably, he was an American League All-Star in 2021 while with the Tampa Bay Rays, showcasing his capability as a high-leverage reliever. citeturn0search2
2024 Season Performance
In the 2024 season, Kittredge played a pivotal role for the St. Louis Cardinals, appearing in a career-high 74 games. He posted a 2.80 ERA over 70.2 innings, recording 67 strikeouts and 20 walks. His performance was instrumental in setting a Cardinals’ single-season record with 37 holds, leading the National League and falling just one behind the MLB leader. citeturn0search2
Impact on the Orioles’ Bullpen
The addition of Kittredge significantly bolsters the Orioles’ bullpen, providing a seasoned arm capable of handling high-leverage situations. His slider, which he utilized 49.4% of the time in 2024, has been particularly effective, yielding a .177 batting average against and a 41.3% whiff rate. This pitch is expected to complement the Orioles’ existing bullpen, which includes closer Félix Bautista and setup men Yennier Cano and Seranthony Domínguez. citeturn0search0
Contract Details and Future Outlook
The structure of Kittredge’s contract reflects the Orioles’ strategic approach to roster management. The $9 million salary for 2025 is a substantial commitment, underscoring the team’s confidence in his abilities. The inclusion of a team option for 2026 with a $1 million buyout provides flexibility, allowing the Orioles to retain Kittredge for an additional season if his performance aligns with expectations. citeturn0search0
