Should the Orioles cut ties with Craig Kimbrel? / MAILBAG

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.

Question: Do you think the Orioles should release Craig Kimbrel? If we release him now, how much money do we owe him? Assuming someone picks him up, how much money do we save? He has had a Hall of Fame career; but this season, he has cost us at least four wins. From: Mike B, Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania

Answer: Mike, I don’t think the Orioles should release Craig Kimbrel. Jim  Bob Welsh and Barry McLaughlin also raised similar points. They don’t have another reliever who’s a possible closer readily available. I understand fans’ frustration with him, and Brandon Hyde hasn’t been putting him in tight spots to try to help him recapture the spark that he had earlier in the season.

If the Orioles released him, they would be responsible for the rest of his salary. Another team could sign him for the minimum. They’re  hoping  he can be an effective pitcher again, and it will be interesting to see if he can be.

Question: The minor leagues end in September. How do minor leaguers stay fresh and ready to join the parent club in case of injury in the playoffs in October? From: Damon Stout

Answer: Damon, Norfolk’s season ends a week before the Orioles’ does on September 22^nd. Players the Orioles might use in the postseason but played for Norfolk can go down to Sarasota to work out and stay ready in case they’re needed.