Orioles Recall Dean Kremer Amidst MLB Trade Speculations
The Baltimore Orioles have recalled right-handed pitcher Dean Kremer from Triple-A Norfolk. He is set to start in tonight’s game. His return follows the optioning of left-hander Cade Povich to Norfolk as the corresponding move.
Dean Kremer’s Performance and History
Kremer has been a key player in the Orioles’ rotation for several years. From 2022 to 2025, he pitched a total of 599.1 innings across 109 appearances. During this span, he recorded a 3.95 earned run average (ERA), a 20.3% strikeout rate, a 7.4% walk rate, and a 40% ground ball rate.
Challenges of the 2026 Season
Entering the 2026 season, Kremer found himself squeezed out of the main rotation. The Orioles signed free agents Zach Eflin and Chris Bassitt, and they also traded for Shane Baz. Consequently, Kremer was optioned to the minors for the first time since 2021, despite his reliability as a back-end starter.
Initially, Eflin’s exit from his first start due to elbow discomfort opened a rotation spot. However, the Orioles opted not to bring Kremer back immediately. Instead, Brandon Young and Cade Povich were called up for recent spot starts while Kremer continued to play for Norfolk.
Future Implications for Kremer
Dean Kremer’s recall is significant for both his career and the Orioles. As of 2026, he has four years and 112 days of service time, leaving him 60 days shy of reaching the five-year mark. This milestone is crucial, as it would prevent him from being optioned to the minors without his consent.
If Kremer can remain with the major league team after tonight’s game, he is on track to reach that five-year mark in June. However, being optioned again would reset his service time countdown.
Rotation Dynamics for the Orioles
Tonight’s game marks the fourth in a grueling stretch of 13 consecutive contests for the Orioles. With Povich starting yesterday, Kremer’s appearance today provides some relief for the rest of the rotation. The team has two off-days later in the month, giving them the option to temporarily shift to a four-man rotation.
| Player | Role | Service Time |
|---|---|---|
| Dean Kremer | Starting Pitcher | 4 years, 112 days |
| Zach Eflin | Starting Pitcher | N/A |
| Chris Bassitt | Starting Pitcher | N/A |
| Shane Baz | Starting Pitcher | N/A |
The rotation decisions could influence Kremer’s future with the club. As the season progresses, the Orioles will need to carefully manage their pitching staff to maintain performance while also addressing Kremer’s career trajectory.
