BREAKING NEWS: The Baltimore Orioles have just announced a significant move, re-signing right-hander Zach Eflin to a one-year, $10 million contract. This critical decision comes as Baltimore aims to strengthen its roster following a disappointing 2025 season.
Sources confirmed to ESPN that the contract includes a mutual option for the 2027 season and a $500,000 bonus contingent on a trade. Eflin, 31, faced challenges last season, landing on the injured list three times due to lat and back injuries. Despite these setbacks, he managed a 5.93 ERA over 14 starts, a stark contrast to his impressive 2.60 ERA in nine starts after joining the Orioles from the Tampa Bay Rays at the 2024 trade deadline.
As the Orioles prepare for the 2026 season, Eflin is expected to play a key role in the rotation, joining a lineup that features a healthy Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, and newly acquired Shane Baz. The team is also considering other internal options like Dean Kremer and Tyler Wells as they look to bolster their pitching depth.
The Orioles’ rotation struggled last season, ranking 24th in the majors in ERA, a concern that Mike Elias, president of baseball operations, indicated was a priority this winter. In addition to securing Eflin, the Orioles have made aggressive moves to improve their roster, including signing closer Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million deal and acquiring first baseman Pete Alonso on a five-year, $155 million contract.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Orioles to see how these changes impact their performance in the upcoming season. MLB Network was the first to report the financial details of Eflin’s new contract, which marks a pivotal step in the Orioles’ quest to return to postseason contention.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
