Orioles’ Injury Crisis: Adley Rutschman Hits IL Amidst Hot Streak

By Oliver Wiener June 24, 2025 09:52

The Baltimore Orioles are facing a significant setback as star catcher Adley Rutschman was placed on the 10-day injured list on June 20 due to a strained left oblique. This marks the first time in Rutschman’s four-year MLB career that he has landed on the injured list, a testament to his durability until now. Interim manager Tony Mansolino confirmed that Rutschman’s injury is mild but emphasized the need for caution to avoid aggravating the strain, projecting that the catcher will miss at least three weeks and likely won’t return until after the All-Star break.

Rutschman’s absence comes at a critical time for the Orioles, who are navigating a challenging stretch of their schedule. Before the break, Baltimore faces tough opponents including the New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, and Tampa Bay Rays. The team’s reliance on Rutschman’s bat and leadership will be sorely missed during this period. In his place, the Orioles have turned to veteran Gary Sánchez and recalled Maverick Handley from Triple-A Norfolk to share catching duties. However, Handley himself suffered an injury in a collision during a recent game, compounding Baltimore’s injury woes.

Offensively, Rutschman had been showing signs of improvement before the injury. After a sluggish start to the 2025 season, he was hitting .227 with eight home runs and 20 RBIs over 68 games. Notably, his June numbers were trending upward, as he posted a .309 batting average with three home runs and nine RBIs this month alone. Despite the overall dip in production compared to his stellar rookie campaign, Rutschman remains a cornerstone of the Orioles’ rebuild and a key figure in their future plans.

The Orioles are taking a conservative approach to Rutschman’s recovery, recognizing that oblique injuries can worsen if rushed. Mansolino remarked, “We all know abdominal and oblique injuries can escalate if not handled properly. Instead of being sidelined for three or four weeks, it could potentially extend to three months.” The MRI confirmed the mild nature of the strain, but the team is prioritizing long-term health over a quick return.

Baltimore’s injury troubles extend beyond Rutschman. The team has endured one of the highest injury rates in MLB this season, with 21 different stints on the injured list involving 17 players. This has tested the Orioles’ depth and resilience, as they continue to develop younger players while managing a demanding schedule.

Looking ahead, the Orioles hope Rutschman’s extended rest will allow him to return fully healthy and contribute down the stretch. His presence behind the plate and in the lineup is vital as Baltimore seeks to climb the American League East standings. The team’s cautious management of his injury reflects a broader strategy to protect their franchise cornerstone and maximize his impact in the coming years.

In summary, Adley Rutschman’s placement on the injured list with a left oblique strain is a significant blow to the Orioles amid a tough schedule. While the injury is mild, the team is prioritizing a careful recovery timeline that likely sidelines him until after the All-Star break. Baltimore will rely on Gary Sánchez and Maverick Handley in the interim, but Rutschman’s return remains crucial for the Orioles’ playoff aspirations and long-term success.