Orioles Reinforce Bullpen with Trade for Relief Pitcher Kittredge
BALTIMORE -- The Orioles are gearing up for a strong 2026 season with a familiar face returning to their bullpen.
Last year, Kittredge signed a one-year deal with the Orioles for $10 million, following a successful 2025 season with a $9 million salary. His contract included a $9 million team option for 2026, with a $1 million buyout.
Kittredge's journey with the Orioles began on the injured list, missing the first two months of the season due to left knee surgery in March. Despite this setback, he impressed with a 3.45 ERA in 31 games for the O's. However, his stay in Baltimore was short-lived as he was traded to the Cubs for 18-year-old Dominican shortstop Wilfri De La Cruz.
In Chicago, Kittredge thrived, posting a 3.32 ERA in 23 appearances, contributing to the Cubs' postseason run as a National League Wild Card. He finished the season with a solid 3.40 ERA in 54 games and performed well in the playoffs, allowing just three runs in five innings across five outings.
With a 3.43 ERA over 309 career games, Kittredge is a seasoned relief pitcher. He previously pitched for the Rays (2017-2023) and the Cardinals (2024), showcasing his versatility and talent. One of his standout seasons was in St. Louis, where he recorded a 2.80 ERA in 74 appearances.
The Orioles signed Kittredge to bolster their bullpen, aiming to build on their recent postseason success. However, the team underperformed in 2025, finishing last in the American League East with a 75-87 record. As a result, Kittredge was traded in July, along with eight other big leaguers, for prospect capital.
Looking ahead, the Orioles aim to bounce back in 2026 under new manager Craig Albernaz. President of baseball operations Mike Elias is committed to making strategic moves to return the team to postseason contention.
Kittredge's return to the bullpen is a significant boost, especially after the team's Trade Deadline losses. Right-hander Bryan Baker (Rays), righty Seranthony Domínguez (Blue Jays), and lefty Gregory Soto (Mets) were all traded simultaneously. Additionally, the Orioles will be without closer Félix Bautista (right shoulder surgery) for most of the season.
While more moves are expected to rebuild the relief corps, Kittredge is a reliable starting point. He is poised to pitch high-leverage innings and will be a key option during the seventh and eighth innings in close games.
