Orioles closer Felix Bautista could miss 2026 after latest surgery

Field Level Media|published: Wed 20th August, 15:52 2025

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

Baltimore Orioles All-Star closer Felix Bautista might not pitch in a game for a full year following shoulder surgery.

Dr. Neal ElAttrache performed labrum and rotator cuff repair in Los Angeles on Tuesday, the Orioles said, confirming the latest medical setback for the 30-year-old.

Bautista hasn't pitched since recording his 19th save of the season on July 20.

Bautista also had Tommy John surgery, elbow debridement and ulnar nerve transposition procedures since his 2023 season ended abruptly.

Bautista regained the closer role and flashed dominant form to begin the 2025 season. He had 50 strikeouts and a 2.60 ERA in addition to the 19 saves.

He was an All-Star in 2023 but injured his right ulnar collateral ligament in a game against the Colorado Rockies on Aug. 25, 2023, and missed the rest of the season. The UCL injury and Tommy John surgery erased his 2024 campaign.

Before the injury, Bautista was one of the dominant closers in the majors. He went 8-2 with 33 saves, a 1.48 ERA and 0.918 WHIP. He struck out 110 in just 61 innings.

In 156 career games, he has a record of 13-7 with a 2.01 ERA and 248 strikeouts in 161 1/3 innings.

--Field Level Media

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