"Like a truck leaking oil" - 6x All-Star pitcher details Craig Kimbrel’s tough outings on the mound for the Orioles

Baltimore Orioles reliever Craig Kimbrel has struggled this season. He has not looked like his usual dominant self, dealing with decreased velocity, and has given up nearly a career-high in home runs already.

During his latest outing on Thursday against the Boston Red Sox, he gave up three runs on two hits. It led to the team's 12-10 loss, and with how the division is shaping up, every game counts.

Many consider Kimbrel one of the best the game has seen, so this rough stretch is hard to watch for some. Six-time All-Star pitcher Jonathan Papelbon discussed the reliever's struggles with Ryan Ripken. (Start at 0:51)

"It's hard for him to pitch right now, and I got to that point in my career too. It's hard to go out there and get people out when your confidence isn't there and you know you're on the end of your career," said Papelbon.

Papelbon understands the struggles of nearing the end of your career, and the 36-year-old Kimbrel is at that point. This is now his 15th season in the big leagues and the wear and tear is starting to show little by little.

"You're like a truck leaking oil and eventually you got no more oil and you leak out, that's what's happening," said Papelbon.

It is tough to be effective in this league when you are not at your peak. Especially with the younger talent seemingly more and more ready by the time they get their name called.

Orioles must keep a close eye on Craig Kimbrel going forward

Baltimore Orioles - Craig Kimbrel (Source via IMAGN)

With how Craig Kimbrel has performed this year, the Orioles must keep a close eye on him as they continue the second half. They are in an intense battle with the New York Yankees for control of the American League East.

They cannot afford to have a log leash on Kimbrel for the rest of the regular season, and certainly not the playoffs. They have to have a backup plan in mind with others in the bullpen.

"I think this year, come playoffs, it's going to have to be a tight yank with him. if he gets a guy on, you got to get him" said Papelbon.

Papelbon echoes that Baltimore must be mindful when deploying Kimbrel out there. Others in the bullpen must step up for the squad and show they can handle high-leverage situations.