Craig Kimbrel has signed a 1-year, $13M deal with the Orioles after leaving the Phillies.
The Baltimore Orioles have signed reliever Craig Kimbrel on a one-year contract for $13 million, with performance bonuses included. Kimbrel, who turned 36 in May, will become the eighth team for the Orioles and earned his ninth All-Star nod last season. The contract includes a club option for 2025 and will help replace All-Star closer Félix Bautista, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Baltimore general manager Mike Elias expressed optimism about the two-year deal and the plan is for Kimbrel to be the closer. Kimbrel, who won the 2018 World Series with Boston, last season pitched in 71 games for the Phillies, marking the second time in his career he appeared in at least 70 games.
Phillies pitcher Kimbrel had a strong season, achieving an 8-6 record with a 3.26 ERA and 23 saves. He struck out 94 over 69 innings, his most since 2021. However, he struggled in the playoffs, with a 0-2 record and a 6.00 ERA. The Phillies thanked Kimbrel on social media, despite fans highlighting his postseason struggles. Kimbrel’s performance was praised by the Phillies.
Kimbrel signed a $10 million, one-year contract with Philadelphia after a $58 million contract with the Cubs, which was lowered by the pandemic.
