Seranthony Domínguez Set to Advance from Oriole to World Series Champion

Bassyonni

ago 8 hours

Seranthony Domínguez Set to Advance from Oriole to World Series Champion

Seranthony Domínguez is the last player from the 2025 Baltimore Orioles still vying for a World Series title. After being traded during a mid-season fire sale, he has found new life with the Toronto Blue Jays, contributing significantly as a setup man.

From Orioles to Blue Jays

Domínguez, originally acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024, took over as the Orioles’ closer after Craig Kimbrel was released. In his initial 15 games with Baltimore, he recorded a 2.57 ERA and secured six saves. However, his performance fluctuated, culminating in a 6.23 ERA in his last ten appearances of the 2024 season.

2025 Season Struggles and Adjustments

The start of the 2025 season mirrored his previous ups and downs. Domínguez began with nine consecutive scoreless outings, boasting an impressive strikeout rate. Yet, after allowing earned runs on April 26, he faced a significant downturn, resulting in an 8.31 ERA by May’s end.

In June, he made a sharp turnaround, relying on a new splitter pitch. His usage of this pitch increased dramatically, leading to improved performance. From June 1 until his trade on July 29, he registered a 1.33 ERA, with an opponents’ batting average of .211.

Trade to the Blue Jays

The odd circumstances surrounding Domínguez’s trade occurred during a doubleheader against the Blue Jays. Despite the unusual setting, the Orioles received promising right-handed pitching prospect Juaron Watts-Brown in exchange. Watts-Brown, known for his exceptional slider, is ranked as Baltimore’s No. 13 prospect following the trade.

Performance with Toronto

Since joining the Blue Jays, Domínguez has emerged as a reliable contributor. In 24 regular-season games, he maintained a 3.00 ERA, striking out 25 batters. His home run rate notably improved, dropping from 0.9 HR/9 innings with the Orioles to 0.4 HR/9 with Toronto.

As the Blue Jays approach the World Series, Domínguez has performed capably, posting a 3.60 ERA in ten playoff appearances. However, he faced challenges as well, allowing two critical home runs during the postseason.

Legacy and Future

Domínguez’s journey is closely watched. If the Blue Jays win the championship, he could become the first player to win a title in the same season he was an Oriole since Trey Mancini in 2022. Alternatively, he may be remembered as the catalyst for the Orioles acquiring a potential star in Juaron Watts-Brown.