Question: I’d like to see the Orioles re-sign Zach Eflin if they can get him on a reasonable contract with maybe a lot of incentives such as innings pitched, games started, ERA and wins. I’d also like to see them sign John Means maybe to a minor league deal or something like the deal mentioned for Eflin. Still need a top-of-rotation guy, but if either are healthy they would add to rotation depth and/or hide in the bullpen or Norfolk until needed. Your thoughts? From: Bill Connor
Answer: Bill, Eflin and Means are two of my favorite people from recent Orioles teams, but I don’t know that they’ll re-sign either.
Eflin had back surgery in August and his recovery was estimated to be four to eight months. If it’s eight months, that means he wouldn’t be ready until April. Eflin’s agents aren’t going to shop him until they have a better timeframe for his rehab.
While he could make sense as a depth piece, I think the Orioles need pitchers who can be ready when the season begins.
Cleveland declined Means’ $6 million option. I would think he’d be looking for a deal close to that, and perhaps the Guardians re-sign him at a lower price.
I would love it if either re-signed with the Orioles, but the guess here is that neither will.
Question: Is Buck Britton being groomed for a future manager position? Thanks. From: John Arnold
Answer: John, I don’t know if the Orioles are preparing him for that step, but I think he’s on track to be a managerial candidate in the next few years, especially if the Orioles do well in 2026.
Britton’s only major league experience was this season, and I think another full season under Craig Albernaz could help make him an attractive choice.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style