UPDATE: The Baltimore Orioles have just announced a significant move, re-signing right-hander Zach Eflin to a $10 million one-year contract. This decision comes as the team aims to bolster its roster following a disappointing 2025 season.
The deal, confirmed by ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, includes a mutual option for the 2027 season and a $500,000 bonus if Eflin is traded. At just 31 years old, Eflin has faced challenges, spending time on the injured list three times last season due to lat and back issues. His performance dipped with a 5.93 ERA across 14 starts, contrasting sharply with the impressive 2.60 ERA he posted in nine starts after being acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024.
With a healthy Trevor Rogers returning from a breakout year and Kyle Bradish also fit, Eflin is expected to slide into the back end of the Orioles’ rotation for 2026. Newly acquired Shane Baz from the Rays further strengthens the lineup. The Orioles are also considering other internal options like Dean Kremer and Tyler Wells to enhance their pitching depth.
This contract extension is part of Orioles President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias‘ strategic plan to improve a rotation that ranked 24th in the majors in ERA last season. Following consecutive postseason appearances, the team finished last in the American League East with only 75 wins. Elias has prioritized enhancing the pitching staff this offseason, alongside adding a closer and right-handed power hitters.
In further moves, the Orioles signed right-hander Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million deal, traded Grayson Rodriguez for outfielder Taylor Ward, and inked first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract.
As the offseason progresses, the Orioles remain active in the market, and fans are eager to see how these adjustments will impact the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates on the Orioles’ roster changes and strategies as they aim to bounce back in 2026.
