Bautista expected to make Grapefruit League debut Monday in Sarasota

The last pitch thrown by Orioles closer Félix Bautista in a competitive game was Aug. 25, 2023 against the Rockies at Camden Yards. Bautista was one strike away from his 34^th save but settled for the unwanted hold.

Bautista unleashed a 102.3 mph fastball to pinch-hitter Michael Toglia, tumbled toward first base, began flexing his hand and walked off the mound. He underwent reconstructive-elbow surgery in October, and rest, rehab exercises and baseball activities followed as Bautista missed the entire 2024 season. He’s gotten through bullpen and live batting practice sessions without any setbacks and is expected to pitch Monday afternoon against the Red Sox in Sarasota.

Manager Brandon Hyde provided the update earlier today in his media scrum in Clearwater, where the Orioles are playing the Phillies.

Monday's game airs on MASN and also features Tomoyuki Sugano’s second appearance with the Orioles. Charlie Morton starts and Sugano is scheduled to pitch in relief.

Bautista is expected to be ready for Opening Day, but the team will ease him back into a full-time closing role. He’s got to build up his arm and innings, and the velocity is sitting in the mid-90s.

Seranthony Domínguez, who allowed two home runs yesterday against the Pirates, including a wind-blown fly ball, registered 10 saves last summer after the Orioles acquired him at the trade deadline. Yennier Cano, Gregor Soto and Andrew Kittredge are other closing options.

Kittredge was listed among the available relievers yesterday but didn’t enter the game. Hyde told the assembled media today that Kittredge has a sore left knee and is day-to-day.

Jordan Westburg is swinging a bat as he nears a return from lower-back soreness. Gunnar Henderson’s right side is feeling a little better, according to Hyde, but he isn’t ready to resume baseball activities.

Grayson Rodriguez starts Wednesday afternoon against the Twins in Fort Myers. Paul Skenes faced the Orioles again Thursday night when the Pirates make the short trip to Sarasota.

The Orioles’ starter is TBA.