Orioles Face Pirates in Spring Training Matchup

Dean Kremer makes his spring debut before World Baseball Classic stint

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Baltimore Orioles are taking on the Pittsburgh Pirates in a spring training game at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, Florida. Orioles pitcher Dean Kremer, who will soon be leaving the team to pitch for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic, is making his spring debut. The Orioles are also debuting several new players, including Taylor Ward, Blaze Alexander, Dylan Beavers, and Leody Taveras.

Why it matters

Spring training games provide an important opportunity for teams to evaluate new players and get their rosters ready for the upcoming regular season. This matchup between the Orioles and Pirates is a chance for both teams to see how their players perform in a competitive setting before the season begins.

The details

Dean Kremer, who is competing for a spot in the Orioles' starting rotation, will take the mound for Baltimore. The Orioles' lineup features several new faces, including outfielder Taylor Ward and infielder Blaze Alexander, who are making their Orioles debuts. Ryan Mountcastle, Gunnar Henderson, and Adley Rutschman are also in the starting lineup for the Orioles. The Pirates will counter with prospect Wilber Dotel on the mound.

  • The game is scheduled for 1:05 PM on February 21, 2026.

The players

Dean Kremer

Orioles pitcher who is competing for a spot in the starting rotation and will soon be leaving the team to pitch for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic.

Taylor Ward

Outfielder making his Orioles debut.

Blaze Alexander

Infielder making his Orioles debut.

Wilber Dotel

Pirates prospect who is starting on the mound for Pittsburgh.

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What’s next

The Orioles will continue their spring training schedule with additional games against the Pirates and other opponents as they prepare for the start of the 2026 regular season.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Orioles and Pirates is an early chance for both teams to see how their new players and roster hopefuls perform in a competitive setting before the start of the regular season.