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Former Rays All-Star reliever signs one-year deal with rival Orioles

ByMason Stacy|
Jul 13, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; American League pitcher Andrew Kittredge of the Tampa Bay Rays (36) pitches against the National League during the seventh inning during the 2021 MLB All Star Game at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Jul 13, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; American League pitcher Andrew Kittredge of the Tampa Bay Rays (36) pitches against the National League during the seventh inning during the 2021 MLB All Star Game at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images | Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Rays former relief pitcher, Andrew Kittredge is one of the most underrated pitchers in franchise history. Actually, if it wasn't for Tommy John surgery that sidelined the 34-year old for most of 2022 and 2023, he could've shown one of the best streaks of play for a Rays reliever. Now, the talented right-handed pitcher has signed a one-year, $10 million deal to play for the Baltimore Orioles.

In the summer of 2008, the Seattle Mariners drafted the Washington native in the 45th round. As a University of Washington alumni, Kittredge was likely excited to play for the organization in his home state. However, his development never reached fulfillment in the Mariners farm system, as he didn't play in a single major league game with the club. After eight years in the minors, Seattle traded the hurler to Tampa Bay in a deal that involved Rays former first round pick, Richie Shaffer.

The Rays instantly witnessed success from the righty as he went 6-1 with a 1.45 ERA in his first full season with Triple-A Durham. In 2017, he received his first call to the big leagues nine years after he was drafted. Kittredge definitely made the most of this opportunity, as he produced an 18-7 record and 3.65 ERA in his seven seasons with the Rays.

His best year was in 2021 when the slider-specialist went 9-3 with a 1.88 ERA. Kittredge also made his first All-Star appearance that season, as he finished fourth in ERA among MLB relievers. He continued his impressive play in the All-Star game when he threw one perfect inning of no runs on no hits. Former Rays catcher, Mike Zunino also appeared in this game as he lifted an opposite field solo home run in the sixth to extend the AL's lead.

Likely due to injuries and team needs elsewhere, the Rays decided to trade Kittredge to the Cardinals right before the 2024 campaign. The singular return was current utility player, Richie Palacios. While in St. Louis, the right-handed reliever continued his fantastic pitching as he finished with his fourth sub-3.00 ERA season. The Orioles may have struck gold with this contract due to the upside of the former Ray.

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