Orioles Receive Concerning Injury News on Andrew Kittredge

Baltimore's bullpen competition wide open with Kittredge's shoulder setback

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Baltimore Orioles received concerning news about right-handed reliever Andrew Kittredge, who suffered a recent setback and is dealing with right shoulder inflammation. Manager Craig Albernaz said there is a 'low' probability Kittredge will be ready for Opening Day, and the team wants to slow-play his recovery. Kittredge, who was reacquired from the Chicago Cubs in the offseason, struggled in his first spring training outing, with his sinker averaging 3.4 mph slower than last season. Without Kittredge, the Orioles' bullpen competition is wide open, with several pitchers vying for spots, including Yennier Canó, Keegan Akin, and Tyler Wells.

Why it matters

The Orioles were counting on Kittredge to be a key piece in their bullpen this season, so his injury setback is a significant concern. The team's bullpen competition is now wide open, with several pitchers looking to step up and fill the void left by Kittredge's potential absence.

The details

Kittredge, who turns 36 later this month, was one of two key pieces brought in to help fortify the back end of Baltimore's bullpen during the offseason. He was reacquired from the Chicago Cubs just weeks before the Ryan Helsley signing, returning for his second stint with the club. Over 31 appearances for the Orioles last season, Kittredge posted a 3.45 ERA and 1.09 WHIP with 32 strikeouts in 31.1 innings. In his first and only spring training outing on Feb. 25, Kittredge struggled, allowing three runs (two earned) while recording just one out on 23 pitches. His sinker averaged 3.4 mph slower than it did last season, and that's when the shoulder inflammation crept up.

  • On Feb. 25, Kittredge struggled in his first and only spring training outing.
  • Kittredge's shoulder inflammation 'creeped up' during his last outing on Feb. 25.

The players

Andrew Kittredge

A 36-year-old right-handed reliever who was reacquired by the Baltimore Orioles in the offseason. He is dealing with right shoulder inflammation and is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day.

Craig Albernaz

The manager of the Baltimore Orioles, who revealed Kittredge's injury setback and said there is a 'low' probability he will be ready for Opening Day.

Yennier Canó

A 32-year-old right-handed reliever who is competing for a bullpen spot with the Orioles after recording 82 holds over the last three seasons.

Keegan Akin

A 31-year-old right-handed reliever who has been dependable for the Orioles over the last two seasons, posting a 3.36 ERA and 1.13 WHIP with 156 strikeouts in 142 innings.

Tyler Wells

A right-handed pitcher who has been informed he will be in the bullpen mix rather than the rotation for the Orioles this season.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.