Orioles Closer Félix Bautista Placed on Injured List with Shoulder Discomfort

The Baltimore Orioles have placed star closer Félix Bautista on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder discomfort, a significant blow to a struggling bullpen as the MLB trade deadline approaches. Bautista, who is making his return from Tommy John surgery, had been performing well with a 2.60 ERA and 19 saves this season, though his command had shown signs of decline and his velocity dropped recently. The injury, which is unrelated to his surgically repaired elbow, prompted Bautista to report being unavailable mid-game, leading the Orioles to shut him down as a precaution. This development likely ends any trade rumors surrounding Bautista for this deadline, as the Orioles recalled right-hander Kade Stroud from Triple-A Norfolk to fill the roster spot. Interim manager Tony Mansolino indicated that Seranthony Domínguez will receive most save opportunities during Bautista's absence. An MRI is scheduled to assess the injury further, and the Orioles face uncertainty with multiple other bullpen veterans potentially being traded soon.