When “Cool Pitcher” Dean Kremer Gets Hot: What Happens in Closed Practice?

The nickname “Cold Pitcher” suits Dean Kremer—a control pitcher who methodically sets up hitters, rarely losing his cool. But when his temper flares during closed practice sessions, rumors fly: What really happened behind closed doors? How did it impact his mindset, team dynamics, and ultimately his July 25, 2025 outing? Let’s dive into the drama, the reactions, and what it revealed about Kremer’s growth.

Why Did Dean Kremer “Heat Up”?

A Rare Break in Composure

Sources on Orioles fan forums pointed to tension during a closed bullpen session in mid‑July: Kremer reportedly snapped at a coach after repeated feedback on his cutter release. According to insiders, coaches had politely suggested adjustments to his grip and timing—Kremer bristled, declaring, “I got this,” then threw a harder cutter into the screen than intended.

The Pressure of Consistency

Dean Kremer entered 2025 seeking stability after inconsistent spring training results (4.50 ERA in 4 outings) and a need to bounce back from a triceps injury the year before. That pressure—combined with being the rotation’s anchor—likely triggered his emotional outburst at practice.

Did That Affect July 25 Game vs. Rockies?

Game Setup

On July 25, 2025, Kremer made his 20th start, posting a line of six innings, five strikeouts, two walks, and allowing five earned runs across six hits—with two home runs surrendered. He took no decision in a 6–5 loss to the Rockies.

Cooling Off on the Mound

Ordinarily calm, Kremer struggled early: with a 4‑0 Orioles lead, he surrendered five runs in the 3rd and 4th innings, showing signs of frustration—shaking his glove, glaring at batters after mistakes.

It mirrored the earlier bullpen anger: a pitcher chasing perfection who loses focus once things slip.

Did His Mood Impact the Team?

On-field Fallout

Manager Tony Mansolino acknowledged after a May loss that Kremer had “tough‑luck” outings and sometimes lacked run support or made untimely mistakes. On the July 25 game, the bullpen and offense couldn’t bail him out, and the team’s energy visibly dropped.

Locker Room and Teammates

Post-game, several teammates expressed concern. Reliever Kyle Bradish said, “Dean needed that consistency game; when it went south early, we all felt it.” Another player anonymously added: “It’s not just about what he does on the mound. Kremer’s vibe sets the tone.”

How Did Coaches Handle It?

Private Intervention

Sources confirm that pitching coach Chris Holt held a closed-door meeting with Kremer shortly after the bullpen incident. The message: passion is good—losing composure isn’t. Holt emphasized mental reset and reinforcing trust in his mechanics over emotion.

Adjustments in Practice

From then on, Kremer’s bullpen practices shifted focus: pairing him with catchers and mentor pitchers to rebuild cutter grip and timing, rather than repeated correction. By the next start, his mechanics were reportedly smoother, control improving.

The Broader Context: Kremer’s Season Rollercoaster

Inconsistent, Yet Effective

Through mid-July, Kremer’s season was defined by extremes: four starts with zero earned runs allowed and four starts giving up five or more runs. His ERA hovered around 4.23, WHIP near 1.25.

Moments of Dominance

In early July, he tossed seven shutout innings against the Marlins on July 11, allowing just three hits and striking out seven. In June, he fanned eight over seven strong frames vs. the Tigers. These outings showed the high ceiling that frustrates fans when inconsistency strikes.

Fans’ Reactions & Social Buzz

Mixed Feedback

Fan forums were animated: “Kremer looks like #3 starter one day, then gives up a 3–0 lead next”. Others praised his potential: “Despite rough outings, he shines brighter than others on our staff”.

Heated Speculation

Viral threads debated whether Kremer’s irritation stemmed from physical fatigue, mechanical regressions, or mental pressure. Some teased his “cold pitcher turned hot”—a wildcard in the O’s rotation.

Why This Matters for Kremer’s Future

Psychological Maturity

At 29, with a season-high of 22 starts in 2025, Kremer is transitioning into a veteran role. Learning to harness frustration rather than flare out is key for long-term growth.

Manager’s Faith

General manager and manager Hyde repeatedly affirmed trust: Kremer is expected to be a rotation mainstay. Consistency—not composure—is being prioritized in coaching talks.

Defining Moments

Every pitcher faces volatility. Kremer’s July 25 outing offers two lessons: the price of losing focus—and how quickly coaches can stabilize lightning. Baseball is equal parts mechanics and mental fortitude.

Conclusion: A Pitcher’s Heat and Cool Balance

Dean Kremer’s path in 2025 has been a blend of brilliance and frustration. The closed-practice incident shed light on the emotional pressure he carries to stay consistent—especially when mechanics falter or runs fall short. His July 25 start wasn’t a career-crushing failure—but a reminder that even the calmest pitchers can boil over.

As the season continues, Kremer’s resilience won’t just be measured in ERA or K/9—but in how he manages himself when the lights are brightest. For a pitcher often labeled “cold,” learning to stay cool under fire may be his most important development yet.