UPDATE: The Baltimore Orioles have just announced the re-signing of right-hander Zach Eflin on a critical one-year, $10 million deal as they aim to bolster their roster after a challenging 2025 season. This move highlights the Orioles’ commitment to improving their pitching staff and sustaining competitive momentum in the highly contested American League East.
Eflin’s contract, confirmed by a source to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, includes a mutual option for the 2027 season and a $500,000 bonus if he is traded. The 31-year-old pitcher faced significant challenges last season, landing on the injured list three times due to lat and back issues, ultimately finishing with a 5.93 ERA across 14 starts. This is a stark contrast to his impressive 2.60 ERA during nine starts after being traded from the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024.
As the Orioles prepare for the 2026 season, Eflin is expected to take a back-end rotation spot, especially with a healthy Trevor Rogers returning after a breakout year and the addition of Shane Baz, acquired from the Rays earlier this month. This lineup adjustment comes as the Orioles look to recover from a disappointing 75-win finish, marking a shift from their previous consecutive postseason appearances.
Improving their rotation was a top priority for Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias, who also focused on adding a closer and right-handed power. Noteworthy signings include Ryan Helsley on a two-year, $28 million deal and a significant trade that brought Taylor Ward into the fold in exchange for right-hander Grayson Rodriguez. Additionally, first baseman Pete Alonso was signed to a lucrative five-year, $155 million contract.
The Orioles’ rotation, which ranked 24th in the majors in ERA last season, will be under scrutiny as they strive to regain their competitive edge. Fans are eager to see how these strategic moves will unfold as the team gears up for the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for further updates as Baltimore continues to reshape its roster in pursuit of postseason success. The re-signing of Eflin marks just one piece of a larger puzzle as the Orioles aim to reclaim their status as contenders in Major League Baseball.
