The Baltimore Orioles have faced major challenges with their pitching in the 2025 season, largely attributed to their front office's decision to let Corbin Burnes go in free agency. However, one silver lining has emerged in the form of 35-year-old rookie Tomoyuki Sugano. Sugano has stepped up as a standout performer in an otherwise struggling rotation. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Angels, he delivered an impressive outing, pitching 7.1 innings, allowing just one earned run, and striking out five batters, contributing to a 4-1 victory.

With a season ERA of 2.72 across 46.1 innings pitched, Sugano has become the only starting pitcher in the Orioles' rotation with an ERA under 3.00, a stark contrast to the rotation's overall lackluster combined mark of 5.48. His ability to generate ground balls and limit hard contact has been crucial for the team. While the Orioles' 2025 campaign has been disappointing, Sugano’s consistent performances provide a glimmer of hope for fans, who can look forward to his starts every fifth day.