Orioles Pitcher Eflin Undergoes Season-Ending Surgery

Zach Eflin to miss remainder of 2026 season after Tommy John procedure.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:02am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion broken down into sharp, overlapping planes in muted earth tones and blues, conceptually representing the challenges of recovering from season-ending Tommy John surgery.A cubist interpretation of a pitcher's throwing motion captures the complexity and intensity of the Tommy John surgery recovery process.Baltimore Today

Baltimore Orioles right-handed pitcher Zach Eflin underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery on his right elbow on Wednesday, the team announced. Eflin had received a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister, who performed the procedure.

Why it matters

Tommy John surgery is a common but serious procedure for pitchers, requiring a lengthy recovery period that often keeps players out for 12-18 months. Eflin's absence is a significant blow to the Orioles' pitching rotation as they aim to contend in the AL East.

The details

Eflin had been dealing with elbow issues and the Orioles decided surgery was the best course of action after getting a second medical opinion. The 28-year-old right-hander was expected to be a key part of Baltimore's starting rotation this season.

  • Eflin underwent Tommy John surgery on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Zach Eflin

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles who will miss the remainder of the 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.

Dr. Keith Meister

The orthopedic surgeon who performed Eflin's Tommy John procedure.

Baltimore Orioles

The Major League Baseball team that Eflin plays for, who announced his season-ending surgery.

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What’s next

Eflin will now begin a lengthy rehabilitation process and is expected to miss 12-18 months of action as he recovers from the Tommy John surgery.

The takeaway

Eflin's injury is a significant setback for the Orioles, who were counting on the right-hander to be a key part of their pitching rotation this season. His absence will force the team to adjust and find alternative options to fill the void in their starting staff.