As the O’s gear up for spring training and the 2025 Major League Baseball season, the team has received encouraging updates on several key players recovering from injuries. After a 2024 season marred by significant setbacks, these developments signal a potential return to full strength for a squad aiming to contend in the American League.
One of the most significant updates involves star closer Félix Bautista, who missed the entire 2024 season following Tommy John surgery after leaving an August 2023 game against Colorado, just one strike from victory. According to a recent report from The Baltimore Sun, Bautista is on track to be ready for Opening Day. The Orioles plan to ease him back into action during spring training, avoiding any rush to ensure the All-Star reliever regains his dominant form. Bautista’s return would provide a massive boost to a bullpen that struggled at times last year.
Felix Bautista said he feels good, goal remains to be ready Opening Day. Is about 85 percent now but will be 100 #orioles
— Roch Kubatko (@masnRoch) February 14, 2025
Starting pitcher Kyle Bradish, another critical piece of the rotation, gave it a go after early elbow pain last year, but ultimately underwent Tommy John surgery in June. While his recovery timeline likely extends into the second half of 2025, the team remains optimistic about his progress. The word is that Bradish is unlikely to return before the All-Star break, but his rehabilitation is proceeding as expected.
Similarly, Tyler Wells, who underwent right UCL repair (“internal brace”) surgery – as opposed to full Tommy John – is also targeting a mid-2025 return. There’s a chance Wells could return before the All-Star break. His return would provide additional flexibility to the rotation or bullpen, areas hit hard by injuries in 2024. Personally, I prefer him in a bullpen role; he just seems to have that intense demeanor that lends itself to late-inning fireman work.
Jorge Mateo, sidelined by left UCL reconstruction surgery after a collision up the middle with Gunnar Henderson, is another player on the mend. Mateo won’t be ready for Opening Day, but it shouldn’t be too long before he is available again.
Jorge Mateo and Trevor Rogers won’t be ready for opening day. Rogers injured right kneecap in January #orioles
— Roch Kubatko (@masnRoch) February 13, 2025
Mateo’s speed and defensive versatility make him a valuable asset, and the Orioles are hopeful he can contribute early in the year.
General manager Mike Elias provided further optimism in comments reported by MASNSports.com and ESPN, stating that Bautista, Rodriguez, and Mateo are expected to be “more or less full go” or without significant restrictions by the start of spring training. This includes Grayson Rodriguez, who dealt with a lat injury in August 2024 but is now on track to resume his role as a key starter without limitations.
The Orioles’ injury woes in 2024, which saw 12 players on the injured list at one point in August, underscored the importance of depth and health. It was rough out there, to put it mildly.
As the Orioles prepare to open spring training in Sarasota, Florida, these updates provide a much-needed dose of optimism. Manager Brandon Hyde and the front office will prioritize cautious rehabilitation to ensure long-term health, but the prospect of having Bautista, Mateo, and eventually Bradish and Wells back in the fold strengthens Baltimore’s outlook for 2025. With a talented young core and a bolstered roster, the Orioles are determined to overcome their injury challenges and make a strong push for the postseason.
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