Andrew Kittredge, the right-handed pitcher with a notable career in Major League Baseball, is now embarking on a new chapter in his professional journey as he joins the Baltimore Orioles. Known for his poise on the mound, Kittredge has carved a reputation for being a reliable arm in the bullpen, particularly during his time with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he gained national attention for his impressive performances.
This move to the Orioles signals a shift in the trajectory of Kittredge’s career, as he transitions into a new environment with a fresh roster, culture, and ambitions. The Baltimore Orioles, who have been undergoing a significant rebuild, are on the rise, looking to reassert themselves as a contender in the American League East. Kittredge’s addition to the roster is part of the club’s effort to bolster its pitching staff and add depth to its bullpen, a crucial area for any team aspiring to compete at a high level.
The Road to the Orioles
Kittredge’s career path has been one of persistence and hard work. After being drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 2011, he didn’t immediately become a household name. Like many players, he spent a number of years bouncing between minor league affiliates, learning the intricacies of pitching at a professional level. His breakthrough moment came when the Tampa Bay Rays claimed him off waivers in 2017, a move that would ultimately give Kittredge the opportunity to prove himself on a major league mound.
In Tampa Bay, Kittredge began to flourish, developing a reputation for his versatility in the bullpen. Known for his fastball, slider, and occasional curveball, he became a reliable option for Rays manager Kevin Cash in late-inning situations. His ability to pitch in multiple roles—from middle relief to closer—demonstrated his value to the team. He often found himself in high-leverage situations and delivered results, which contributed to Tampa Bay’s success in contending for postseason spots.
However, after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2022, Kittredge’s time on the field became limited. While the rehab process was difficult, it also allowed him to reflect on the next phase of his career. Having watched the league evolve, he became aware of the changing dynamics within the pitching landscape, particularly with the growing emphasis on data-driven pitching strategies and the need to adapt.
With his recovery progressing and a renewed sense of determination, Kittredge found himself a free agent. In the offseason of 2024, as teams across the league sought to solidify their pitching rotations and bullpens, Kittredge caught the attention of the Orioles. The Orioles, coming off a season where they showed significant promise and depth, were looking for seasoned, reliable arms to add experience to their young, dynamic roster.
Joining the Orioles
The signing of Kittredge was seen as a strategic move for Baltimore. While the Orioles already boasted a promising bullpen with names like Félix Bautista and Yennier Cano, adding a veteran presence like Kittredge was viewed as a key piece in strengthening their pitching staff. For Kittredge, this was an exciting opportunity to be part of a team that was on the rise, and to contribute to a culture that valued both development and competitive play.
Kittredge’s style of pitching aligns well with the Orioles’ philosophy. The team has placed a heavy emphasis on a combination of analytical strategy and development, aiming to build a cohesive, versatile pitching staff. Kittredge’s ability to mix pitches, control the strike zone, and handle various situations in high-leverage moments fits seamlessly into this approach.
In joining the Orioles, Kittredge also enters a division filled with perennial powerhouses such as the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays. The AL East has become one of the most competitive divisions in baseball, but the Orioles are emerging as a legitimate contender, and Kittredge’s experience could be instrumental in their pursuit of a playoff spot. He brings with him not only his skills on the mound but also the wisdom gained from years of pitching in tight, high-stakes situations.
What Kittredge Brings to the Orioles
Kittredge’s pitch arsenal is one of his defining characteristics. With a fastball that can touch the mid-90s, a nasty slider that keeps hitters off-balance, and the occasional curveball to keep them guessing, he’s a pitcher who thrives in unpredictable, pressure-filled moments. His ability to attack hitters with a combination of power and finesse has made him a key figure in any bullpen he’s been a part of.
One of Kittredge’s most notable strengths is his control. Over the years, he’s shown a remarkable ability to avoid walks and to consistently work ahead in the count. This is an invaluable trait for a reliever, as it allows him to get in and out of jams without giving opposing offenses a chance to rally. Kittredge’s fastball command, combined with his slider’s break, allows him to generate weak contact and generate swings and misses. This is precisely the type of pitcher that Baltimore needs to shore up its bullpen for the long haul of a season.
In addition to his physical tools, Kittredge’s mental approach to pitching is another asset that will be beneficial to the Orioles. His years of experience in various roles will allow him to adapt quickly to the demands of the Orioles’ bullpen. Whether it’s closing out games or providing critical innings in the middle of a contest, Kittredge has demonstrated time and again that he can handle pressure. His composure, especially in tight situations, is one of the hallmarks of his career.
Another key factor is Kittredge’s willingness to adjust his approach based on scouting reports and game situations. The Orioles are a team that places a high value on preparation and leveraging advanced analytics, and Kittredge has always shown a keen understanding of how to optimize his pitches based on the hitters he faces. This adaptability will serve him well as the Orioles continue to develop their own pitching philosophies, and it will also make him a valuable mentor to the younger pitchers in the bullpen who are still refining their craft.
The Orioles’ Future and Kittredge’s Role
The Orioles’ future is bright, with a growing core of young talent, including stars like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Grayson Rodriguez. While much of the attention has focused on the team’s position players, the pitching staff has quietly become one of the most promising in the league. The addition of Kittredge further strengthens the bullpen, which is crucial for any team with playoff aspirations.
Kittredge’s role with the Orioles will likely be a flexible one, as the team will need him to pitch in a variety of high-leverage situations. Whether he serves as a setup man, a middle reliever, or occasionally steps into a closing role, Kittredge’s versatility will be one of the team’s greatest assets. The Orioles will also benefit from his experience in the postseason, as Kittredge has played a role in multiple playoff races during his time with the Rays. His leadership, coupled with his pitching ability, will help guide a young bullpen that may be called upon to step up in big moments.
In the larger context of the Orioles’ rebuild, Kittredge represents both the team’s commitment to adding experienced players who can help elevate the squad and its focus on developing a sustainable, winning culture. As the team continues to build towards championship contention, having a player like Kittredge—who understands the grind of the season, the value of preparation, and the importance of staying level-headed under pressure—can have an outsized impact on the team’s success.
