On Sunday, Dean Kremer showcased a commanding performance by pitching seven shutout innings as the Baltimore Orioles secured a 12-0 win over the Houston Astros in the final game of their three-game series. This dominant display by Kremer Orioles dominant performance highlighted Baltimore’s complete control throughout the matchup.

Kremer’s Exceptional Pitching Silences Houston’s Offense

Kremer (9-9) allowed just three singles over a career-high 114 pitches, improving his record to 4-0 against the Astros with a remarkable 1.47 ERA in five career starts versus Houston. After yielding a one-out single to Carlos Correa in the first inning and another leadoff single to Yainer Diaz in the second, Kremer retired nine batters in a row. Despite a walk issued to Victor Caratini in the fifth, Kremer quickly induced a double play to avoid further trouble and then struck out three consecutive hitters.

In the seventh inning, after conceding a leadoff single to Jose Altuve, Kremer retired the next three batters in order, finishing with seven strikeouts and only one walk. His outing featured 21 strikeouts, including eight on his splitter and six on his cutter, underscoring his control and effectiveness on the mound.

Astros’ Struggles Continue Amid Injuries and Bullpen Challenges

Astros starter Cristian Javier (1-1), making only his second start after a 14-month absence due to injury, left the game after three innings with an illness. Houston’s bullpen faltered as Baltimore seized control in the fifth inning with a four-run rally against reliever Shawn Dubin. Jackson Holliday’s single drove in Dylan Beavers to extend the lead before Jordan Westburg launched a three-run homer to right-center field, forcing Dubin’s exit and pushing the Orioles ahead 5-0.

Offensive Surge Extends Orioles’ Lead in Late Innings

The Orioles continued their offensive onslaught in the seventh inning with Westburg delivering an RBI single during a two-run frame that also included a run-scoring groundout from Adley Rutschman. Baltimore sent ten batters to the plate in the eighth inning, piling five more runs against Astros reliever Jordan Weems. Westburg added another RBI single in the inning, while rookie Samuel Basallo contributed a two-run single in his major league debut, further widening the gap.

Key Performances Highlight Baltimore’s Team Effort

Jordan Westburg finished with a career-high five RBIs, going 4-for-5 at the plate. Rookie Jeremiah Jackson recorded his first three-hit game and scored three runs, demonstrating his rising potential. Jackson Holliday also played a significant role with two hits, two walks, and three runs scored, illustrating Baltimore’s balanced attack.

Implications of the Orioles’ Convincing Series Win

With this commanding victory, the Orioles not only claimed the series but also sent a statement about their growing strength and resilience. Dean Kremer’s dominant outing and Baltimore’s powerful offense demonstrated their ability to capitalize on Houston’s health struggles and bullpen weaknesses. Looking ahead, this win could boost the Orioles’ confidence as they continue their quest for postseason contention.