The first major offseason domino fell Tuesday for the Orioles when right-hander Kyle Gibson agreed to a contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, ending Gibson’s impactful stay in Baltimore after one season.
Gibson joined the Orioles last December to replace another veteran in Jordan Lyles, whose option for a second year wasn’t exercised despite his strong clubhouse presence. Gibson brought a similar aura to the ballclub, becoming a character the young pitchers in the rotation and bullpen gravitated toward. But once again general manager and Executive Vice President Mike Elias opted to let a veteran pitcher walk.
The landing spot in St. Louis, which a source confirmed to The Baltimore Banner after USA Today’s initial report, is ideal for Gibson. He lives near the city and attended the University of Missouri. He’ll also figure to have another year to supply a heavy innings load, just as he did for the Orioles. The 36-year-old threw 192 innings with a 4.73 ERA. His highs included an 11-strikeout game against his former team, the Minnesota Twins, in July, as well as a two-hit, seven-inning shutout against the New York Yankees in May. He also started opening day.
Gibson’s $10 million contact for 2023 was the largest contract Elias delivered. According to ESPN, the deal in St. Louis is worth at least $12 million and carries an option for 2025.
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