Chris Bassitt Returns to Orioles from Injured List

The Baltimore Orioles have reinstated pitcher Chris Bassitt from the 60-day injured list, as announced by the club. To accommodate his return, the team optioned reliever Yaramil Hiraldo to Triple-A Norfolk.

Bassitt, who has been sidelined since June 3 due to a back issue requiring surgery, made three minor league rehab starts, allowing three earned runs over 13 2/3 innings while striking out 12 batters. He is expected to pitch in the series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Prior to his injury, Bassitt had a 5.27 ERA in 12 appearances this season, which is below his usual performance level. Despite a challenging year, he returns to a rotation that has seen some changes, as the Orioles traded several veterans before the deadline. The team remains in contention for a Wild Card spot, sitting just two games behind the final playoff position.