The Orioles are continuing to add starting pitchers, reaching agreement on a one-year, $10 million deal with a mutual option for 2027 with right-hander Zach Eflin.
Eflin, who was originally obtained from the Tampa Bay Rays in July 2024, had back surgery in August 2025. His recovery time was estimated at four-to-eight months.
In 2025, Eflin went on the injured list three times and had a 6-5 record with a 5.93 ERA. He was the Orioles’ Opening Day starter. In nine starts in 2024, Eflin was 5-2 with a 2.60 ERA.
Before his surgery, Eflin indicated that he wanted to return.
“Absolutely, I love this clubhouse,” Eflin said. “I’ve told pretty much everybody that we’ve had a conversation about that. I told them, I love this place. I’d love to be here. We’re going to get the operation done and kind of see where that takes us.”
Eflin joins a rotation that includes the recently acquired Shane Baz, Kyle Bradish, Trevor Rogers, Dean Kremer, Tyler Wells, Cade Povich and Brandon Young.
News of Eflin’s return was first reported by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale and terms reported by The New York Post’s Jon Heyman. FanSided’s Robert Murray reported that Eflin will receive a $5 million salary, a $3 million signing bonus and a $2 million buyout. The buyout and option can both increase with 15 starts in 2026 and an additional $1.5 million with 20 starts.
To make room for Eflin on the 40-man roster, outfielder Will Robertson has been designated for assignment.
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