Kyle Bradish won’t even get to step onto the mound in the 2026 season, but he’s already secured his first victory — not against an opponent on the court, but in the courtroom.
The Baltimore Orioles lost their arbitration with Bradish, meaning the 29-year-old right-fielder will receive a salary of $3.55 million, higher than the $2.875 million initially offered by the club. The difference isn’t huge on paper, but it carries significant meaning in the Orioles’ current situation.
Bradish is the first of two outstanding arbitration cases for Baltimore this season. The other, Keegan Akin, has yet to reach an agreement — making Bradish’s victory all the more noteworthy.
From a professional standpoint, the Orioles have reason to accept this price. Bradish is considered one of the most important pieces of the rotation, especially after a 2025 that was almost completely ruined by injuries. Bradish himself was a victim: Tommy John surgery in June 2024 meant Bradish only made eight starts that year.
But upon his return at the end of the 2025 season, Bradish was more than just “okay.” He impressed. Six starts, an ERA of 2.53, 47 strikeouts in 32 innings, a WHIP of just 1.03. These weren’t the numbers of a recovering pitcher—but of someone ready to lead.
The problem is: Bradish isn’t the only case. The Orioles enter 2026 with a rotation full of talent… and full of question marks. Trevor Rogers, Zach Eflin, Tyler Wells—all returning from serious injuries. Each name carries potential, but also risk.
In that context, Bradish’s arbitration victory inadvertently created a ripple effect. It reaffirmed his value internally, but also set a new benchmark — especially as Keegan Akin is still awaiting a ruling on his case.
Baltimore has done well in closing most arbitration cases early. Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, Taylor Ward — all are settled. But pitching is always a different story. More sensitive. More fragile.
And the Orioles understand that. Despite having several returning pitchers, they haven’t stopped searching for a true ace. Framber Valdez remains the most talked-about name. The market is quiet, spring training is approaching, and the belief within the team is: Valdez will eventually arrive in Baltimore.
If that happens, Bradish’s arbitration victory will take on another layer of meaning. It’s not just about salary, but a message: the Orioles are preparing for a deep rotation, but are also prepared to accept the financial pressure and expectations that come with it.
The remaining question is: can all the newly returned arms coexist healthily—or will Baltimore have to continue making difficult decisions, starting with seemingly small details?
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