Craig Kimbrel landing spots: 3 potential destinations for 9x All-Star after being DFA'd by Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles have officially designated nine-time All-Star Craig Kimbrel after a disastrous season with the club. It's been rough for the veteran pitcher this year and it has resulted in the Orioles opting to move on from him.
Following the move, Craig Kimbrel will be placed on waivers and undoubtedly clear. Any team that will claim him would be tasked to pay out the remainder of this year's contract as well as a $1 million buyout for 2025. At this point, it seems clear that Kimbrel will be released by the Orioles and could hit the open market.
The problem for Kimbrel is the fact that he will be ineligible for the postseason if he were to join a new club. That being said, while he could wait until the offseason, he could also look to rebuild his value before the end of the season. For teams fighting for a postseason berth, adding Kimbrel temporarily could be intriguing, especially at an affordable price.
Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots for Craig Kimbrel after being DFA'd
Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox's playoff hopes are hanging on by a thread; however, there is enough time remaining in the regular season to close the gap in the American League Wild Card race. Adding a proven veteran such as Kimbrel for a late-season push could be enough for the front office to consider a reunion with their former All-Star.
LA Dodgers
The LA Dodgers are going to likely make a deep run in the postseason this year. Even though Craig Kimbrel would not be able to play on the club's playoff roster, he could still be helpful as they look to close out the regular season on a high note.
Although Kimbrel's 5.33 ERA hardly sounds like a high note, bringing in a proven veteran could provide the Dodgers with some additional pitching depth to close out the year. The Dodgers have been hit by the injury bug all season and bringing in Kimbrel to pick up an inning here or there could allow them to get as healthy as possible for the playoffs.
Detroit Tigers
Believe it or not, the Detroit Tigers could secure a postseason berth for the first time since 2014. The Tigers sit 1.5 games outside of the final American League Wild Card spot with 10 games remaining. Although there is not much time left, if they could bring in Craig Kimbrel for even a few games, it could be the difference between reaching the playoffs or missing it again.