Kyle Gibson Makes a Comeback: Signs $5.25 Million Deal with Orioles!

In a significant move for both the player and the franchise, Kyle Gibson has officially rejoined the Baltimore Orioles on a one-year contract worth $5.25 million. The announcement, made by the Orioles on Friday night, marks Gibson’s return to the team after a one-season hiatus, during which he played for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Gibson, a 37-year-old right-handed pitcher, boasts a wealth of experience in Major League Baseball (MLB). His signing is part of the Orioles’ strategy to bolster their starting rotation as they prepare for the 2025 season. This acquisition reflects the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster capable of contending in the upcoming season.

The Orioles are coming off a remarkable 2023 season, where they not only clinched the American League East title for the first time since 2014 but also achieved a franchise-record 101 wins. Gibson played a pivotal role during that season, posting a 15-9 record and a 4.73 ERA in 33 games. His performance was instrumental in the team’s success, and his return is seen as a strategic enhancement to the pitching staff.

In 2024, Gibson recorded a 4.24 ERA in 30 starts with the Cardinals, but his previous success with the Orioles is what likely prompted this reunion. The contract includes up to $1.525 million in performance incentives, providing Gibson with the opportunity to further increase his earnings based on his performance.

Manager Brandon Hyde expressed enthusiasm about Gibson’s return, highlighting his leadership and reliability. “Kyle is not just a talented pitcher; he’s a mentor to our younger players,” Hyde remarked. This aspect of Gibson’s character is particularly valuable as the Orioles navigate injuries within their pitching rotation, including the notable absence of Grayson Rodriguez.

The Orioles’ rotation will also feature other seasoned veterans like Charlie Morton and Tomoyuki Sugano, adding depth and experience to the pitching staff. Gibson’s return is expected to provide much-needed stability to a rotation that has been identified as a potential weak link. His durability is impressive, having consistently made at least 25 starts in each of his 10 full major league seasons.

Gibson’s previous nomination for the Roberto Clemente Award underscores his positive impact both on and off the field during his first tenure with the Orioles. This recognition speaks volumes about his character and the leadership qualities he brings to the team.

As the Orioles gear up for the 2025 season, they are clearly focused on creating a strong and competitive roster. The addition of Gibson is a testament to their commitment to winning, and fans are hopeful that this move will pay dividends in the coming months. With his experience and track record, Gibson is poised to make a significant impact once again in Baltimore.

In conclusion, Kyle Gibson’s return to the Baltimore Orioles on a $5.25 million deal is more than just a signing; it represents a strategic move to reinforce the team’s pitching staff as they aim for success in the 2025 season. With his proven track record and leadership qualities, Gibson is expected to play a crucial role in the Orioles’ quest to build on their recent accomplishments and continue their ascent in Major League Baseball.