UPDATE: The Baltimore Orioles have just announced a major roster move, re-signing right-hander Zach Eflin to a one-year, $10 million contract. This urgent decision comes as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season, which saw them finish last in the fiercely competitive American League East.
Eflin, 31, faced a tumultuous year, landing on the injured list three times due to lat and back injuries. Despite this, he managed to secure a contract that includes a mutual option for the 2027 season and a $500,000 bonus should he be traded. His performance last season reflected struggles, culminating in a 5.93 ERA across 14 starts, a stark contrast to the impressive 2.60 ERA he posted in nine starts after joining the Orioles from the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024.
As the Orioles prepare for the upcoming season, Eflin’s role is expected to shift. With a healthy Trevor Rogers returning from a breakout campaign and Kyle Bradish fit to pitch, Eflin will likely occupy a back-end spot in the rotation. Additionally, the recent acquisition of Shane Baz from the Rays for a haul of prospects adds further depth to the Orioles’ pitching lineup.
President of baseball operations Mike Elias is prioritizing improvements to the rotation, which ranked 24th in the majors for ERA last season. This re-signing is part of a larger strategy that has already seen the Orioles strengthen their roster by signing closer Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million deal and acquiring outfielder Taylor Ward through a trade involving right-hander Grayson Rodriguez.
In a dramatic offseason, the Orioles also secured first baseman Pete Alonso, signing him to a lucrative five-year, $155 million contract. These moves signal a clear intention to enhance the team’s competitiveness as they aim to return to playoff contention.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans will be closely watching how these roster changes impact the Orioles’ performance. The next few weeks are critical as the team continues refining its pitching staff, potentially adding further talent before the winter concludes.
Stay tuned for the latest updates as the Orioles aim to turn their fortunes around and reclaim their place among the league’s elite.
