UPDATE: The Baltimore Orioles have just announced a significant move, re-signing right-hander Zach Eflin to a one-year contract worth $10 million. This decision comes as the team aggressively works to rebuild its roster following a disappointing 2025 season.
The deal, confirmed by ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, includes a mutual option for the 2027 season and features a $500,000 bonus if Eflin is traded. With Eflin’s experience, the Orioles aim to strengthen their pitching staff after finishing last in the American League East.
Eflin, 31, faced challenges last season, spending considerable time on the injured list due to lat and back issues. Despite these setbacks, he managed a 5.93 ERA across 14 starts, a stark contrast to his impressive 2.60 ERA from nine starts after being acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024.
As the Orioles prepare for the 2026 season, Eflin is expected to fill a crucial role in the back end of the rotation. The team is also welcoming a healthy Trevor Rogers and has recently acquired Shane Baz from the Rays, boosting its pitching depth. Other options include Dean Kremer and Tyler Wells, as the Orioles focus on improving their rotation, which ranked 24th in the majors last season.
Following consecutive postseason appearances, the Orioles fell to a 75-win finish last year, prompting president of baseball operations Mike Elias to prioritize improvements. The team has already made strides by signing closer Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million deal and trading Grayson Rodriguez for outfielder Taylor Ward. Additionally, they secured first baseman Pete Alonso with a massive five-year, $155 million contract.
With these developments, the Orioles aim to reclaim their competitive edge in the American League East. Fans can expect more roster updates as the offseason progresses, with the team likely to continue making moves to ensure a stronger showing in 2026.
