Orioles’ Jewish Pitcher Dean Kremer Overcomes Heartache to Start ALDS Game
BALTIMORE – Dean Kremer, the Jewish pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles, will be taking the mound in Tuesday’s game with a heavy heart. Named as the starter for the crucial elimination game in the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Texas Rangers, Kremer can’t help but think about the deadly attacks happening in Israel.
Kremer, who holds dual Israeli-American citizenship and has family still residing in Israel, spends two months each year in the country. With the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalating into open warfare after a surprise attack by Hamas, the situation has hit close to home for Kremer.
Despite the tragic events unfolding in his native country, Kremer remains determined to pitch in this important game. When asked if there was any hesitation, he replied, No, I still want to pitch, but it’s going to be in the back of my head.
Orioles’ Manager Brandon Hyde also consulted with Kremer before naming him as the starter. They had a heartfelt conversation, with Hyde expressing his sympathy and support for Kremer’s family affected by the conflict. Kremer seemed positive and ready to pitch, indicating that he felt comfortable with the situation regarding his family’s well-being.
Hyde believes that the violence in Israel won’t affect Kremer in the biggest game of his career. Despite the disturbing events taking place in his homeland, Kremer is looking forward to this opportunity to showcase his pitching skills.
Kremer, a 27-year-old from Stockton, California, has had a successful season with a 13-5 record and a 4.12 ERA in 32 games. In his last appearance against the Boston Red Sox on September 28, he delivered an outstanding performance, pitching 5.1 shutout innings, allowing only two hits, and striking out eight.
While Kremer is undoubtedly disturbed by the situation in Israel, his teammates have shown their support by checking in on him during the past 48 hours. The pitcher expresses his gratitude for their care and concern.
As the Orioles prepare to face off against the Rangers, Kremer’s strong determination and focus will be essential for his team’s success. He’s ready to put his heavy heart aside and give his all on the pitcher’s mound.
Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers will start right-hander Nathan Eovaldi, who has had an impressive season with a 12-5 record and a 3.63 ERA in the regular season. Eovaldi pitched 6.2 shutout innings in the Rangers’ victory over the Tampa Bay Rays in the wild-card round.
The outcome of this decisive ALDS game will determine whether the Baltimore Orioles advance in the playoffs or their season comes to an end. All eyes will be on Dean Kremer as he takes the mound, pitching with a heavy heart but a strong determination to succeed.
