Orioles' RHP Zach Eflin leaves game with right elbow discomfort

Eflin struck out seven in 3 2/3 innings before being pulled in the fourth inning

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:22am

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Zach Eflin was abruptly pulled from Tuesday night's game against the Texas Rangers with right elbow discomfort in the fourth inning. Eflin had struck out seven batters and allowed only one run on a solo homer before being lifted from the game.

Why it matters

Eflin was re-signed by the Orioles to a one-year, $10 million deal this past offseason, with a $25 million mutual option or $2 million buyout for 2027. Any significant injury to Eflin could be a major setback for the Orioles' pitching rotation.

The details

With two on and two out in the fourth inning, Eflin threw one more pitch before a meeting on the mound that included manager Craig Albernaz. Eflin was then lifted and replaced by reliever Grant Wolfram, who got the third out.

  • Eflin left the game in the fourth inning on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

The players

Zach Eflin

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher who left Tuesday's game with right elbow discomfort.

Craig Albernaz

Manager of the Baltimore Orioles.

Grant Wolfram

Reliever who replaced Eflin in the fourth inning.

Ezequiel Duran

Texas Rangers player who hit a solo home run off Eflin in the third inning.

Dean Kremer

Orioles pitcher who was sent down to the minors to start the season and could be an option to replace Eflin if he misses significant time.

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What’s next

The Orioles will evaluate Eflin's injury and determine the severity. If he has to miss significant time, Dean Kremer could be called up from the minors to take his spot in the rotation.

The takeaway

Eflin's injury is a concerning development for the Orioles, who were counting on him to be a key part of their pitching staff this season after re-signing him to a one-year, $10 million deal. The team will need to closely monitor his recovery and determine if he will miss extended time, which could force them to turn to other options like Dean Kremer to fill the void in the rotation.