Baltimore Orioles Zach Britton Injury Update

By Bill Pivetz | May 1, 2016

Apr 4, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Zach Britton (53) pitches during the ninth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Baltimore Orioles defeated Minnesota Twins 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

Orioles closer Zach Britton left Saturday’s game with a left ankle sprain. While the injury doesn’t seem to be that serious, there are still some things to know for the upcoming week.

The Baltimore Orioles, just like the rest of the American League East, have a dangerous bullpen that can shut down batters and close the game. The team was able to bring back Darren O’Day after a successful season. He will be back to set-up closer Zach Britton. After the news Saturday night, he might be the closer for a lttle bit. If you own Britton, you should have another closer or two on your roster.

More from Fantasy Baseball

Britton is currently one of the best closers in the league. He is 1-1 with six saves, 13 strikeouts, 2.70 ERA and 0.80 WHIP. He suffered his first loss Saturday night when he one run on one hit while striking out two in 0.2 innings. There is no other reason than injury that Zach Britton was pulled from the game.

He hobbled off the field after two outs and was replaced by Vance Worley. It was later announced that Britton is dealing with a left ankle sprain. Orioles manager Buck Showalter told the Baltimore Sun’s Jon Meoli that he is considered day-to-day. It could be a lot worse, but he may miss a couple of days, too.

As a result, O’Day becomes the closer for the time being. He has one save, a 2.79 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 14.0 K/9 this season. In deeper formats, Mychal Givens is someone who can see some opportunities. He has a 3.00 ERA, 1.75 WHIP and 21 strikeouts in 12.0 innings. If you need to improve your strikeouts, Givens is the guy to add.

Next: Rich Hill May 1 Streaming Option

O’Day is likely owned in most, if not all, of fantasy leagues. So, you should look elsewhere for a short-term replacement. There are still a lot of productive closers available. I’ve mentioned them before, so I won’t repeat myself. Just check your waiver wire for a fill in.

As for Zach Britton, if all goes as planned, he will be back by next weekend. You just need to hold tight and wait for his return. A DL stint is highly unlikely.

Home/Fantasy Baseball