NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Craig Kimbrel isn’t Félix Bautista.
He isn’t Josh Hader. He isn’t Emmanuel Clase. He isn’t even what he used to be.
Since the Orioles signed Kimbrel on Wednesday to be their closer, the reaction from many Baltimore fans online has been too focused on what he isn’t instead of what he is.
Kimbrel is good enough to be a closer on a contending team. He is experienced as one of the most decorated relievers in baseball history with 417 career saves. He does provide a valuable upgrade to Baltimore’s bullpen.