The Orioles' Bullpen Conundrum: 5 Lefty Relievers to Watch
The Baltimore Orioles are on a mission to rebuild their bullpen, and it's a challenging task. As the team gears up for the 2025-26 season, they've already made some moves, but there's a crucial piece missing.
The Orioles have bolstered their bullpen with the addition of right-hander Ryan Helsley and the return of Andrew Kittredge, but the search for left-handed relief is far from over.
Currently, Baltimore has three lefties on their 40-man roster: Keegan Akin, Dietrich Enns, and Grant Wolfram. While Akin and Enns are expected to make the cut, Wolfram could join them with a solid spring training performance. The Orioles have also signed left-hander Andrew Magno to a minor league deal, inviting him to spring training.
But when it comes to pitching, more is always better. Here's a look at five left-handed relievers who could be on the Orioles' radar, with a focus on middle relief:
Caleb Ferguson (Age 29): Ferguson had a solid 2025 season, posting a 3.58 ERA across 70 games with the Pirates and Mariners. He's a reliable middle reliever, and with the additions of Kittredge and Helsley, the Orioles could use his consistency. Ferguson doesn't strike out many batters (21.4% whiff rate), but he excels at limiting hard contact (84.8 mph average exit velocity).
But here's where it gets interesting: Ferguson's ability to induce ground balls is a valuable asset, especially considering Akin's struggles in that department last season. A lefty who can force weak contact could be a game-changer for the Orioles.
Danny Coulombe (Age 36): Coulombe's impact on the Orioles in 2023 and 2024 shouldn't be underestimated. His clubhouse presence is invaluable, and his performance in 2025 (2.30 ERA in 43 innings) proves he's still a force. Coulombe's time with the Twins (1.16 ERA in 31 innings) was particularly impressive. He compensates for his lack of velocity with a deadly cutter and sinker, limiting hard contact to 38.3%.
Andrew Chafin (Age 35): Chafin's 2025 resurgence makes him an attractive option. His 2.41 ERA in 33 2/3 innings with the Nationals and Angels is impressive, but his high walk rate (13.3%) is a concern. However, he excels at inducing ground balls (46.6%) and allowed only two homers in 42 appearances. Chafin could be a cost-effective addition, providing experience without breaking the bank.
Jalen Beeks (Age 32): Beeks brings closing experience to the table, having closed 10 games in 2024. His 2025 stats (3.77 ERA, 1.081 WHIP in 57 1/3 innings) make him a high-leverage arm. Beeks' changeup is a nightmare for batters, holding them to a .067 average and .080 slugging percentage. His ability to mix pitches effectively makes him a versatile option.
Génesis Cabrera (Age 29): Cabrera's 2025 season was a rollercoaster, pitching for four teams and struggling to find consistency. However, his arsenal is intriguing, featuring a fastball and sinker around 95 mph and a cutter with a 34.2% whiff rate. Cabrera is a low-risk, high-reward option who could benefit from the guidance of pitching coach Drew French.
The Orioles' bullpen strategy is a delicate balance, and these left-handed relievers offer a mix of experience, potential, and unique skill sets. But the question remains: Which of these pitchers will be the missing piece in the Orioles' bullpen puzzle? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the possibilities!
