In a tough outing, Dean Kremer delivered another solid performance, pitching seven innings and allowing only two runs against the Minnesota Twins, but he ended the day without a win to show for it as the Orioles fell 5-2. Despite Kremer’s strong showing—retiring 10 of the last 12 batters and notching a season-high eight strikeouts—the Orioles continued to struggle offensively, leaving nine runners stranded and failing to capitalize on multiple scoring opportunities.
The game, held at Target Field, saw the Twins complete a series sweep against the Orioles. Brooks Lee’s pivotal two-out double in the eighth inning broke the tie, putting the Twins ahead for good after Trevor Larnach’s game-tying home run in the sixth inning. This latest defeat marked the Orioles’ fifth consecutive loss, dropping their record to 13-23, which is the first time they’ve been ten games under .500 since June 2022.
Manager Brandon Hyde lauded Kremer’s efforts, stating, “He did everything he could. It shouldn’t have gotten to that point,” referencing the team’s struggles to convert on scoring chances. Kremer’s frustration was palpable, yet he maintained a focus on his pitching strategy, saying he aims to remain detached from the team’s offensive woes, concentrating on executing his game plan.
The Orioles’ hitting struggles have been evident, as they are batting just .190 with runners in scoring position this season. The team is grappling with inexperience and pressing in crucial situations. Hyde noted that the hitters are in frequent discussions about improving their performance, yet solutions remain elusive.
Looking ahead, the Orioles are focused on turning their performance around as they head into a series against the Angels. With the return of pitchers like Zach Eflin from the injured list, there is hope that the rotation will strengthen and help provide some stability. Kremer feels optimistic about the longer season, emphasizing a need to remain positive and take it one game at a time. As the team boards their flight to Anaheim, there’s a collective belief that better days are ahead.
This series of losses serves as a learning experience for the young players, and as they strive to improve, there’s a hopeful outlook that their hard work will soon pay off on the field.