Orioles Recall Dean Kremer

Kremer returns to the majors after being optioned to Triple-A to start the season

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:21pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's delivery, with sharp, overlapping planes in muted tones of navy, forest green, and charcoal grey, conveying the complex, multi-faceted nature of Kremer's role in the Orioles' pitching rotation.Kremer's return to the Orioles' rotation brings a veteran presence to the pitching staff as the team navigates a busy stretch of games.Norfolk Today

The Baltimore Orioles have recalled right-handed pitcher Dean Kremer from their Triple-A affiliate in Norfolk, Virginia. Kremer, who has been a reliable back-end starter for the Orioles over the past few seasons, was optioned to the minors at the start of the 2026 campaign due to a crowded rotation. With an injury to free agent signing Zach Eflin, Kremer has now been called back up and will start tonight's game for the Orioles.

Why it matters

Kremer's return to the Orioles' rotation is significant as he approaches a key service time milestone that could impact his future with the team. If he remains in the majors long enough to reach five years of service time in June, he will no longer be eligible for optional assignments without his consent, putting him on a path to free agency after the 2027 season. The Orioles will need to carefully manage Kremer's status as they balance their rotation needs with his long-term contract situation.

The details

Kremer, 29, has been a consistent presence in the Orioles' rotation since 2022, posting a 3.95 ERA over 599.1 innings across 109 appearances. However, the offseason additions of Zach Eflin and Chris Bassitt, as well as the trade for Shane Baz, pushed Kremer out of the starting five to begin the 2026 season. With Eflin now sidelined due to an elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery, the Orioles have recalled Kremer from Triple-A Norfolk to fill the vacant rotation spot.

  • Kremer was optioned to the minors at the start of the 2026 season.
  • Eflin departed his first start of the 2026 season due to elbow discomfort, eventually requiring Tommy John surgery.
  • Kremer will make his first start of the 2026 season tonight for the Orioles.

The players

Dean Kremer

A 29-year-old right-handed pitcher who has been a reliable back-end starter for the Baltimore Orioles since 2022.

Zach Eflin

A free agent pitcher signed by the Orioles in the offseason, who was placed on the injured list after his first start of the 2026 season due to an elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery.

Cade Povich

A left-handed pitcher who was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk to make room for Kremer's recall.

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What’s next

The Orioles will need to monitor Kremer's performance and service time as they balance their rotation needs. If Kremer remains in the majors long enough to reach five years of service time in June, he will no longer be eligible for optional assignments without his consent, putting him on a path to free agency after the 2027 season.

The takeaway

Kremer's return to the Orioles' rotation is a significant development as the team navigates its pitching staff and Kremer's contract situation. The Orioles will need to carefully manage Kremer's status to ensure they get the most out of him while also protecting their long-term interests.