Kremer avoids injured list and gets Friday night's start against Rays

Dean Kremer did more than dodge the injured list, which alone was an impressive accomplishment.

He’s starting Friday night in the series opener against the Rays at Camden Yards.

The 103.1 mph line drive from Colorado’s Jordan Beck that slammed off Kremer’s right forearm in the fourth inning Saturday night at Coors Field raised a huge welt above his wrist and major concerns about the Orioles’ rotation. As if it could afford another loss.

Kremer played catch in the outfield in recent days, had a bullpen session yesterday at Camden Yards and convinced the Orioles that he could take his next turn.

Asked about Kremer after Sunday’s game, manager Brandon Hyde said, "I would be really surprised if he’s pitching in four or five days.” The Orioles are off tonight. Kremer is on the mound Friday.

Zach Eflin starts Saturday against his former team, which traded him near the deadline, and Corbin Burnes gets the ball Sunday afternoon.

The Rays, who are 2-8 against the Orioles this season, are starting right-handers Shane Baz, Ryan Pepiot and Zack Littell.

Kremer missed about six weeks this season with a right triceps strain. He registered three straight quality starts before lasting only 3 1/3 innings against the Rockies and becoming the latest example of the club’s rotten luck with injuries.

Eflin was reinstated from the injured list Sunday and produced his fifth quality start in five outings with the Orioles. Grayson Rodriguez completed his first bullpen session yesterday since going on the IL with right lat/teres discomfort, throwing about 20 pitches and mixing off-speed stuff with his fastball, and is hopeful that he can return later this month for the playoff push. He hasn’t pitched since July 31.

Kyle Bradish, John Means and Tyler Wells underwent elbow surgeries earlier this year and won’t pitch before 2025, but they’re back with the team and have lockers in the clubhouse.

Just not in their old locations.

Kremer, much to the relief of the entire Orioles organization, is staying in his old role.