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.