Orioles Pitcher Kyle Bradish Wins Salary Arbitration Case

Bradish will earn $3.55 million in 2026 after defeating the team's $2.875 million offer.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 10:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Starting pitcher Kyle Bradish defeated the Baltimore Orioles in the first salary arbitration decision of the year, securing a $3.55 million salary for the 2026 season instead of the team's $2.875 million offer. Bradish, a 29-year-old right-hander, returned to the Orioles in August 2025 after recovering from Tommy John surgery, posting a 2.53 ERA in six starts to end the season.

Why it matters

Salary arbitration cases can be contentious, but Bradish's victory demonstrates his value to the Orioles as a key part of their starting rotation. The outcome also sets a precedent for other players heading into arbitration negotiations with their teams.

The details

An arbitration panel of Melinda Gordon, Chris Cameron, and Steve Raymond ruled in Bradish's favor on Tuesday, a day after hearing arguments from both sides. Bradish had a $2.35 million salary in 2025 and is on track to become a free agent after the 2028 World Series.

  • Bradish returned to the Orioles on August 26, 2025 following Tommy John surgery.
  • The arbitration panel issued their decision on Tuesday, February 4, 2026.

The players

Kyle Bradish

A 29-year-old right-handed starting pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles who won his salary arbitration case, securing a $3.55 million salary for the 2026 season.

Baltimore Orioles

The Major League Baseball team that Bradish plays for, who had initially offered him a $2.875 million salary for 2026 before losing the arbitration case.

Melinda Gordon

One of the three arbitrators who ruled in favor of Bradish in the salary arbitration case.

Chris Cameron

One of the three arbitrators who ruled in favor of Bradish in the salary arbitration case.

Steve Raymond

One of the three arbitrators who ruled in favor of Bradish in the salary arbitration case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Orioles will need to determine how Bradish's new $3.55 million salary fits into their overall payroll and roster plans for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Bradish's successful arbitration case highlights the importance of player development and retention for small-market teams like the Orioles, who must carefully balance their budgets while keeping top talent on the roster.