Baltimore Orioles top ten prospects for 2020
By David Hill
7. Dean Kremer
Minors (A+, AA, AAA): 9-6 record, 113.2 innings, 3.72 ERA, 1.302 WHiP, 122 strikeouts, 37 walks
One of the pieces acquired in the Baltimore Orioles trade of Manny Machado, Dean Kremer has quickly established himself as one of the better young pitchers in their system.
Kremer made eight appearances in AA for the Orioles last year, and spent most of the 2019 season in Bowie once more. An oblique injury caused Kremer to start the season late, but he was still able to pitch his way to Norfolk by the end of the year. Unfortunately, his performance in AAA was not what Kremer, nor the Orioles, would have wanted.
Although Kremer did not begin pitching full time until he went to junior college, he already has the tools needed to become a major league option. Armed with a four pitch mix, Kremer’s curve is a plus offering with tremendous break that he can throw to either side of the plate. His fastball sits in the lower to mid 90s, and has touched 96 MPH on occasion. Kremer has has an average slider and the vestiges of a change, but both pitches need further development.
By the same token, Kremer should continue to develop as well. He has not been a pitcher for long, and as he continues to refine his craft, he could improve his future outlook. With his arsenal and command, Kremer could be a solid middle to back of the rotation arm, although there is the chance that he can take another step or two forward.
The Baltimore Orioles needed to get several pieces for the future when they traded Manny Machado. Dean Kremer is one of those pieces that could make an impact.