Orioles sign Craig Kimbrel as closer

NASHVILLE—The Orioles have signed relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel to a one-year, $12 million contract with a $13 million option or a $1 million buyout for 2025, according to the New York Post.

The Orioles have been in the market for an experienced closer since losing Félix Bautista for 2024 after he had Tommy John surgery in October.

The 35-year-old right-hander is eighth on the all-time saves list with 417 and was 8-6 with a 3.26 earned-run average and 23 saves for Philadelphia this past season.

Kimbrel began his major league career in 2010 with Atlanta and played for Orioles bench coach Fredi González with the Braves from 2011-2014.

He’s a nine-time All-Star who has played for the Braves, Phillies, Padres, Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox and Dodgers.

Kimbrel, who was a winner of the top reliever in both the National and American Leagues, has pitched in nine postseasons with a 4.50 ERA in 30 games. Last season, he was 0-2 with a 12.00 ERA and a save in the National League Championship Series with the Phillies.

Orioles catcher James McCann has watched Kimbrel over the years.

“Man, when he’s on, he’s a lock-down pitcher,” McCann said. “He’s a guy that’s intimidating. He’s obviously got the stuff. He’s been doing it for so long, but he’s definitely a veteran guy that can come in and be a lights-out-type inning where you know, similar to Bautista, when he’s grabbing the ball, you know the game is over.”

The Orioles’ 40-man roster is at 37.