Felix Bautista Starts Minor League Rehab Assignment

Felix Bautista has commenced his minor league rehab assignment with Double-A Chesapeake following shoulder surgery. In his first game, he threw 22 pitches, allowing one hit and three walks while retiring only one of five batters faced.

Despite the less-than-ideal performance, Chesapeake manager Robert Mercado emphasized that the primary goal was Bautista's health and ability to pitch again. Bautista's last appearance before this was on July 20, 2025, after which he was placed on the injured list due to shoulder discomfort, later diagnosed as a torn rotator cuff and labrum, leading to surgery.

While Bautista's recovery timeline has been largely adhered to, the number of rehab outings required for his full readiness remains uncertain. He is expected to continue his rehab at the Triple-A level. His return would significantly bolster the Orioles' bullpen, which is currently missing Ryan Helsley due to injury.