Orioles Re-Sign Zach Eflin to Bolster Pitching Rotation

Controversial move raises questions about Baltimore's offseason strategy

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:21am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into overlapping geometric shapes in muted tones of navy, forest green, and burnt orange, representing the strategic complexity of the Orioles' offseason decisions.The Orioles' offseason moves, including the re-signing of Zach Eflin, reveal a strategic approach to rebuilding their pitching rotation.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Orioles have re-signed starting pitcher Zach Eflin to a one-year, $10 million contract, a move that has sparked debate among fans. Eflin, who joined the team in a 2024 trade deadline deal, had an up-and-down 2025 season marred by injuries. The Orioles' decision to bring him back raises questions about whether the team is playing it safe or setting up for bigger surprises in the offseason.

Why it matters

The Eflin signing is a crucial move for the Orioles as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. The team's pitching depth was severely tested last year, forcing inexperienced arms into the spotlight prematurely. By re-signing Eflin, the Orioles are adding a proven veteran to their rotation and providing more insurance against potential injuries.

The details

Eflin, who will turn 32 early in the 2026 season, was acquired by the Orioles from the Tampa Bay Rays in July 2024. He impressed in his nine starts for Baltimore that year, posting a 2.60 ERA. However, his 2025 season was derailed by injuries, including a back issue that required surgery and sidelined him for the final two months of the year. The Orioles' decision to commit $10 million to Eflin suggests their medical staff is optimistic about his recovery and rehabilitation.

  • Eflin was acquired by the Orioles in a July 2024 trade deadline deal.
  • In 2025, Eflin made only 14 starts for the Orioles, finishing with a 5.93 ERA.
  • Eflin underwent back surgery in August 2025, with a recovery timeline ranging from 4 to 8 months.

The players

Zach Eflin

A 32-year-old right-handed starting pitcher who was acquired by the Orioles in a 2024 trade deadline deal and is now re-signing with the team on a one-year, $10 million contract.

Mike Elias

The general manager of the Baltimore Orioles, who is responsible for the team's offseason moves, including the decision to re-sign Zach Eflin.

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What’s next

The Orioles' offseason moves will continue to be closely watched, as fans and analysts speculate about whether the team will make a big splash in free agency or continue to build from within. The upcoming deadline for international free agent Tatsuya Imai's posting window on January 2 could provide further clues about the Orioles' plans.

The takeaway

The Eflin signing is a calculated move by the Orioles to shore up their pitching depth and prevent a repeat of the injury-plagued 2025 season. While it may not be the splashy free agent acquisition some fans were hoping for, it could be a smart, cost-effective way to stabilize the rotation and set the stage for bigger surprises from the Orioles' front office in the coming months.