Félix Bautista made a triumphant and uplifting return to the mound on Monday.
Baltimore Orioles pitcher Félix Bautista made his long-awaited return to the mound on Monday after spending an incredible 556 days away from MLB. His comeback took place during the team’s spring training matchup against the Boston Red Sox.
Bautista’s last professional appearance was on Aug. 25, 2023, before suffering a right UCL tear that required Tommy John surgery.
His return was both inspiring and successful, as he delivered a flawless fifth inning, needing just 13 pitches (nine strikes) to retire the side in order.
He struck out Trayce Thompson—the first batter he faced in 556 days—with a 96-mph fastball, flashing a big smile afterward. He then fanned Nate Eaton and induced a groundout from David Hamilton to complete the inning.
Fans at Ed Smith Stadium gave Bautista a standing ovation as he walked off the field. He shared an embrace with catcher Adley Rutschman and acknowledged the crowd with a smile.
“That was very exciting,” Bautista said through team interpreter Brandon Quinones. “I missed my fans. I missed hearing them every time I stepped onto the field. It was very gratifying to go out there today and hear them once again.”
As long as his recovery stays on track, Bautista is expected to be part of the Orioles’ Opening Day roster.
The 29-year-old previously pitched for Baltimore in 2022 and 2023, posting impressive ERAs of 2.19 and 1.48, respectively, over those two seasons.
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