The Baltimore Orioles are starting to regain health as they approach the critical late-season stretch. After being sidelined by multiple injuries this year, the team announced that Adley Rutschman and Keegan Akin have been reinstated from the injured list, providing a much-needed boost to the lineup and bullpen.
These returns come as the Orioles aim to gain momentum, although the team’s struggles earlier in the campaign make a playoff push challenging. Still, the added game time will be valuable for the development of several young players moving forward.
Significance of Rutschman’s Return to the Orioles
Adley Rutschman’s return from a left oblique strain that put him on the injured list on June 21 marks the most impactful development. The star catcher, who entered the 2025 season with expectations of rebounding from a difficult second half in 2024, has instead faced one of his toughest professional years, posting a .227/.319/.372 slash line and an OPS+ of 96, the lowest of his career. His health and confidence in these remaining games will be crucial for both his future and the team’s longer-term success.
Regaining form could position Rutschman as a key contributor as Baltimore builds toward contention in the 2026 season and beyond, providing stability behind the plate and leadership on the field.
Keegan Akin Strengthens the Orioles’ Bullpen Depth
Left-handed reliever Keegan Akin has also been reinstated, returning after shoulder inflammation sidelined him. Following a difficult 2023, Akin showed improvement with a 3.32 ERA through 66 appearances last season and maintained that level in the current campaign before his injury, holding a 3.32 ERA in 32 outings. His continued recovery is important as he remains under club control for next year, supporting Baltimore’s bullpen depth moving forward.
In corresponding roster moves, right-handed pitcher Yaramil Hiraldo was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk, while catcher Jacob Stallings was designated for assignment.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Orioles
Although the Orioles’ 2025 playoff hopes are uncertain given their earlier injuries and performance issues, having Rutschman and Akin back on the roster provides hope for incremental improvement and growth opportunities. Their presence should aid Baltimore as it plans to be more competitive in future campaigns, particularly with key players regaining health and experience. The team will likely rely on these returns to build stronger momentum as the season concludes and prepare for the seasons ahead.