Reclamation projects in baseball are always a gamble — but the ones with real velocity tend to be the most intriguing.

That’s exactly why the Baltimore Orioles took a chance on Jackson Kowar.

Once a first-round pick of the Kansas City Royals in 2018, Kowar entered pro ball with top-of-the-rotation upside. The raw ingredients were there: a power fastball, a sharp slider, and swing-and-miss potential. But command issues followed him throughout his development, preventing sustained success at the big-league level.

After bouncing around — including a stint with the Seattle Mariners — Kowar underwent Tommy John surgery before the 2024 season concluded. He eventually returned, but Seattle designated him for assignment in January. Baltimore then acquired him for cash considerations, a low-risk move that could carry significant upside.

Why Kowar Is Still Intriguing

Kowar’s days as a frontline starting prospect are likely over. But that doesn’t mean his value has evaporated.

When he’s right, his four-seam fastball/slider combination generates:

• Weak contact

• Elevated chase rates

• Late swings

Even more encouraging? The velocity remains intact. In 2025, his fastball has averaged 97.3 mph.

Velocity alone doesn’t guarantee outs — especially in today’s game, where hitters adjust quickly. But arm talent like that is difficult to teach. For a team with a strong pitching development infrastructure, it provides a legitimate foundation.

The Orioles don’t need Kowar to anchor a rotation. They need him to dominate one inning at a time.

A Real Shot at the Bullpen

Baltimore’s bullpen picture is crowded, complicated by handedness, minor-league options, and roster flexibility. Kowar, notably, is out of options — meaning if he doesn’t make the team, he risks being lost.

But this isn’t just about roster mechanics.

If Kowar shows improved command in camp — even marginal gains in strike throwing and pitch sequencing — he could claim one of the final bullpen spots. The first few relief roles are locked in, but several remain open to competition this spring.

And in a bullpen setting, his profile makes sense:

• Short bursts maximize velocity

• Simplified pitch mix

• Less exposure to lineup turns

That shift alone has revitalized many former starting prospects.

Why This Could Be a Massive Win

For a contender, finding impact bullpen arms cheaply is a competitive advantage. If Kowar becomes even a reliable middle reliever with swing-and-miss ability, Baltimore essentially found value for almost nothing.

The Orioles aren’t banking on a miracle.

They’re betting on:

• Arm strength

• Modern pitching development

• Role optimization

Reclamation projects fail more often than they succeed. But when they work, they can reshape a bullpen for pennies on the dollar.

If Kowar throws strikes this spring and harnesses even average command, don’t be surprised if his name appears on the Opening Day roster.

For Baltimore, that would represent more than just depth.

It would represent upside realized.