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OriolesFélix Bautista Has Rotator Cuff, Labrum Repair, Ruled Out for at Least 12 Months

Baltimore enters the offseason without an established closer, prompting bullpen decisions.

Jul 5, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Felix Bautista (74) pitches against the Atlanta Braves during the ninth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images/ File Photo
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SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 19: Elias Díaz #17 and Robert Suarez #75 of the San Diego Padres celebrate after defeating the San Francisco Giants 5-1 in a game at Petco Park on August 19, 2025 in San Diego, California.
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Overview

  • Team officials said the surgery was performed Tuesday in Los Angeles by Dr. Neal ElAttrache to repair tears in Bautista’s right rotator cuff and labrum.
  • Recovery is projected at a minimum of 12 months, creating uncertainty that could push his return to late 2026 or even 2027.
  • Bautista last pitched July 20 and reported shoulder discomfort during warmups days later; multiple MRIs first showed inflammation before revealing damage that required surgery.
  • He had been effective in 2025 with a 2.60 ERA, 19 saves and 50 strikeouts in 34 2/3 innings after missing 2024 following Tommy John surgery and other elbow procedures.
  • With Bautista sidelined, the Orioles have closed games by committee — including Keegan Akin, Dietrich Enns and Corbin Martin — after trading multiple relievers at the deadline, increasing offseason bullpen needs.