O's call up top prospect Rodriguez for MLB debut

ARLINGTON -- Grayson Rodriguez is coming to Texas. And not just to visit his friends and family, as he's debuting in the Major Leagues.

The 23-year-old started the Orioles’ series finale against the Rangers at Globe Life Field on Wednesday afternoon.

• What to expect from Grayson Rodriguez | Who is G-Rod? | Built for this moment

Rodriguez, who was born in Houston and attended high school 150 miles north in Nacogdoches, Texas, had a tough end to Spring Training, when he posted a 7.04 ERA in five Grapefruit League starts. Baltimore’s No. 2 prospect (and MLB Pipeline’s No. 7 overall prospect) allowed 14 runs (11 earned) in 10 2/3 innings over his final three outings and was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk to open the season.

• What you need to know about G-Rod's debut

Last Friday, Rodriguez made his first start of the season for Norfolk and allowed three runs (two earned) in four innings at Durham.

Rodriguez likely would have reached the Majors in 2022 had he not missed three months due to a right lat strain. But it was clear he was on track to get to the big leagues in ‘23.

• Gifted G-Rod seemed destined for this moment in MLB spotlight

The O’s needed a starter for Wednesday’s game after right-hander Kyle Bradish exited his season debut on Monday with a right foot contusion, which he sustained when he was hit by a 104 mph liner in the second inning. Tyler Wells, who had been scheduled to start Tuesday, volunteered to pitch in relief and tossed five hitless innings in a 2-0 win over the Rangers.

That caused a ripple effect within Baltimore’s rotation, as Kyle Gibson was bumped up from Wednesday to start Tuesday on regular rest. The options for Wednesday became either a spot start for long reliever Austin Voth or a callup from the Minor Leagues.