Baltimore Starting Rotation Takes a Massive Hit Ahead of the 2025 MLB Season, Less Than A Fort-Night To Go. As Orioles Swing Deal For $15 Million Cardinals Starter To Replace Grayson Rodriguez

The Baltimore Orioles are facing a significant setback in their starting rotation just weeks before the start of the 2025 MLB season.

With Opening Day rapidly approaching, the team has been forced to make adjustments after losing one of their key pitchers, Grayson Rodriguez.

The young right-hander, who was expected to play a crucial role in Baltimore’s rotation this season, is now sidelined due to an undisclosed issue, leaving a major hole in the team’s pitching staff.

In response to this unexpected blow, the Orioles acted quickly to secure a replacement, striking a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals to acquire veteran right-hander Erick Fedde.

The 31-year-old pitcher, who signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the Cardinals, will now join Baltimore in hopes of stabilizing their rotation.

Fedde, who previously spent time with the Washington Nationals and had a successful stint in the KBO before returning to MLB, brings experience and durability to a Baltimore team looking to build on last season’s success.

Rodriguez was expected to be a major contributor for the Orioles in 2025, having shown flashes of dominance during the previous season.

His high-velocity fastball and improving command made him a potential breakout candidate, and his absence will be a tough loss for Baltimore.

While the severity and duration of his setback remain unclear, the Orioles were left with little choice but to find a dependable arm to step in.

Fedde, who reinvented himself overseas before returning to MLB, offers a solid option for Baltimore. He had a strong showing in the KBO, which helped him land his deal with the Cardinals.

While he isn’t necessarily an ace, he provides consistency and the ability to eat innings, something the Orioles will desperately need with Rodriguez out of the picture.

For Baltimore, the challenge now will be integrating Fedde into their system and ensuring he can perform under pressure.

The Orioles, who are coming off a promising 2024 season, are hoping to take the next step toward serious postseason contention.

Losing Rodriguez is a setback, but the front office’s swift action to acquire Fedde shows their commitment to remaining competitive in the highly competitive AL East.

Now, all eyes will be on Fedde as he prepares to make an immediate impact in his new home.