Kyle Bradish Wins Arbitration Case, Orioles Gain Clarity Amid Rotation Questions
As the Orioles continue their offseason push to bolster the rotation, one key piece of business is now settled: Kyle Bradish has won his arbitration case and will earn $3.55 million in 2026. That’s a win for Bradish, and it gives the Orioles some much-needed clarity on the payroll front as they navigate a free-agent market that’s still full of opportunity-and uncertainty.
The arbitration process can be a tightrope walk, especially when you’re dealing with one of your most valuable arms. Bradish had filed at $3.55 million, while the team countered at $2.875 million.
That’s not a massive gap by arbitration standards, but it was enough to send both sides into a hearing room and let a third party make the call. In the end, the panel sided with Bradish.
A Small Difference, A Bigger Message
From a pure numbers standpoint, the difference-$675,000-isn’t likely to derail any major plans. But in Baltimore, where every dollar seems to be scrutinized, it’s fair to wonder if this outcome nudges the front office in any direction as they continue searching for rotation help.
More importantly, this was Bradish’s first trip through arbitration, and the result sets a tone. Yes, he’s had some injury concerns, and there’s no ignoring the looming impact of his Tommy John surgery.
But when he’s healthy, Bradish has shown he can be a frontline starter. The $3.55 million figure reflects that value, even as the Orioles weigh the long-term implications of his health.
The Human Element of Arbitration
This is where things get tricky. Arbitration isn’t just about numbers-it’s about perception.
When a team and a player can’t come to terms and head into a hearing, it can get personal fast. Players hear the team’s case against them, often highlighting flaws or reasons they shouldn’t be paid more.
That can leave a mark, especially for a guy like Bradish, who’s expected to be a central figure in the rotation once he’s back to full strength.
Baltimore will have to go through this process with Bradish two more times if he sticks around. That makes it all the more important to maintain a strong relationship. You don’t want to alienate a core piece of your pitching staff-especially not when your rotation is already thin and in flux.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles’ offseason has been defined by their pursuit of starting pitching, and with the Corbin Burnes trade now in the books, the front office has shown it’s willing to get aggressive. But how they handle their own talent matters just as much as who they bring in. Bradish winning this case doesn’t just settle a number-it sends a message about his value and what he means to the future of this team.
There’s still work to be done in Baltimore. But with Bradish’s salary now locked in, the Orioles can move forward with a clearer picture of their payroll-and hopefully, a stronger relationship with one of their most important arms.