Baltimore Orioles fans knew what the MLB trade deadline was going to represent for their favorite team: a busy day that saw the front office move any player who was not anchored down beyond this season. Along those lines, it was successful as the Orioles managed to come away with a haul of talented prospects that has added a level of excitement to the team’s top prospect list.

Closers were on the move at the deadline–Mason Miller was moved to the Padres, Ryan Helsley was moved to the New York Mets, and David Bednar went to the New York Yankees, among a handful of deals that involved high-leverage relief pitchers. Closers weren’t just on the move at the deadline, but contending teams were ready to pay a premium for their talents at the deadline.

Which brings us to the move that Orioles fans may have been expecting, but didn’t get. Félix Bautista is still with the Orioles, and it’s likely because of the current shoulder discomfort he is experiencing. Adding to that, the Orioles have yet to determine what is causing the discomfort for Bautista.

The trade Orioles fans wanted most was doomed by one untimely injury

When healthy, Bautista is one of the best closers in the game. In 35 appearances this season, Bautista has an ERA of 2.60 while striking out over 35 percent of the hitters he has faced this season. Under control through the 2027 season, Bautista would have fetched the Orioles a haul of prospects from any team that was circling with interest. Beyond that, a trade of Bautista likely would have fetched the Orioles’ prospects who are closer to being major league-ready than the ones they did receive.

Assuming Bautista reaches the end of the season with a clean bill of health, which isn’t exactly certain at the moment, chances are the Orioles will entertain a potential trade this offseason. Bautista’s health will determine his value, but if he returns to the mound before the season is up, his trade value will remain high this winter–and there will be more teams likely in the sweepstakes.