Kyle Bradish Injury Update: Orioles pitcher set to return to rotation following UCL sprain

Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kyle Bradish is yet to make his 2024 season debut. The hard-throwing righty has been on the IL with a right UCL sprain but is nearing his return.

Bradish has made three rehab starts in Triple-A, with the most recent coming on Friday. Manager Brandon Hyde said that his next start will be in the big leagues, per MLB reporter Jake Rill.

This is the best-case scenario for Baltimore and Bradish. Many believed that when he went down with his UCL injury, he would need Tommy John and miss the season.

With Bradish coming off the IL soon, Baltimore will have to figure out what pitcher will get bumped out of the starting rotation. Watch out for Albert Suarez or Cole Irvin to get the short end of the stick.

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Kyle Bradish could be a major boost to the Orioles rotation

Baltimore Orioles - Kyle Bradish (Image via USA Today)

Kyle Bradish had a fantastic season last year with the Orioles. He started 30 games, compiling a 12-7 record with a 2.83 ERA over 168.2 innings of work, seeing multiple career-highs. After the 2023 season came to an end, he finished fourth in AL Cy Young voting, quickly showing fans he is here to stay.

Now, Bradish has a new partner in crime in the rotation with Baltimore acquiring Corbin Burnes during the offseason. The two could work as an effective starting pair.

Burnes has worked as the team's ace so far, running up a 3-0 record with a 2.55 ERA. He has helped Baltimore sit atop the competitive American League East with a 16-9 record alongside the New York Yankees.

Another pitcher is close to making their to the mound for Baltimore as well. John Means is scheduled to make his sixth rehab start for Triple-A on Sunday and could return shortly after.