Matt Eflin’s Potential Impact on Orioles’ Roster Plans

The Baltimore Orioles just added a familiar veteran arm to their pitching plans. They signed right-hander Zach Eflin to a one-year contract, aiming for stability over splashy headlines.

Fans are still hoping for a blockbuster move. But this signing shows the front office is taking a calculated approach as the team reshapes for another postseason push.

Orioles Add Zach Eflin as Rotation Insurance

The Orioles and Zach Eflin agreed to a one-year, $10 million deal with a mutual option for 2027. The price might look hefty, but the club sees this as a depth move—not the centerpiece of their offseason.

General manager Mike Elias hasn’t been shy about chasing top-tier starters like Framber Valdez or Ranger Suárez. That hunt continues. Eflin fills a different need—a steady, experienced starter who can step in when injuries hit. Baltimore’s had its share of those.

Not the Headliner, but a Necessary Piece

Earlier in the offseason, the Orioles landed slugger Pete Alonso. Elias hinted that bigger moves might still be on the horizon. Eflin’s contract feels more like a safety net than a final solution for the rotation.

Health Questions Loom Over Eflin’s Role

Eflin’s health is the biggest question mark. He had a lumbar microdiscectomy on August 18 to fix nagging lower-back problems that sidelined him last season.

The surgery is pretty standard and usually works out, but nobody’s sure if Eflin will be ready for Opening Day. The Orioles are taking it slow—no sense in rushing a pitcher back from back surgery.

Opening Day Rotation Still Taking Shape

If Eflin can’t go to start the season, Baltimore has options. The rotation could include:

When Eflin returns, Wells probably slides back to the bullpen. He’s shown his stuff plays well there in shorter outings.

Roster Flexibility Remains a Strength

Eflin’s $10 million deal still leaves the Orioles about $13 million under last year’s payroll. That wiggle room is no accident. Baltimore wants to stay nimble in case another pitching opportunity pops up later in the winter or right before Opening Day.

Last season, the need for depth became painfully obvious. The Orioles used a franchise-record 70 players—including 41 pitchers. Injuries forced constant shuffling and reminded everyone how quickly plans can unravel.

Why a Six-Man Rotation Is Unlikely

Even with a crowded pitching staff, Elias and manager Craig Albernaz don’t plan to go with a six-man rotation. They’d rather keep defined roles for Bradish, Rogers, and Baz, using swingmen and bullpen arms to stay flexible.

Dean Kremer, especially, probably won’t move to relief. He’s durable and eats innings—qualities that make him valuable as a traditional starter, even if things get a bit crowded for a while.

Eflin’s Mindset: Starter or Bust

Eflin hasn’t minced words—he wants to start. After a season full of injuries and setbacks, the 30-year-old is gearing up for the rotation again.

He’s driven to show he can still handle the job as a dependable big league starter. The Orioles seem to agree, though they’re keeping an eye on his health.

This move shows the front office is thinking ahead. They’re adding depth, watching the payroll, and maybe leaving room for more pitching moves as the offseason drags on.

 
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