Zack Eflin Returns to Baltimore Orioles on One-Year Deal

The Baltimore Orioles have made a familiar move by bringing back a veteran arm they know well. By re-signing right-hander Zach Eflin, the club is juggling risk, upside, leadership, and rotation depth as it keeps chasing another postseason run.

Orioles Re-Sign Zach Eflin to One-Year Deal

Baltimore has officially re-signed right-hander Zach Eflin to a one-year major league contract worth $10 million for the 2025 season, with a mutual option for 2027. Eflin, now 31, returns to the organization after making an immediate impact following his arrival at the 2024 trade deadline.

The contract shows the Orioles’ belief in Eflin, but also their awareness of the uncertainty around his health. It’s a big number, but the short-term deal keeps the long-term risk low for Baltimore.

Health Remains the Biggest Variable

Eflin underwent a lumbar microdiscectomy in August to address persistent lower-back pain. That surgery comes with a recovery timeline of four to eight months, so Opening Day isn’t a sure thing for him.

In 2024, injuries really limited Eflin’s workload. He made just 14 starts, posted a 5.93 ERA, and logged a 1.416 WHIP. His season included three separate stints on the injured list, including time missed for a right lat strain.

Strong Finish with Baltimore Changed the Narrative

The overall numbers weren’t pretty, but Eflin actually pitched well after joining the Orioles midway through the season. In nine outings with Baltimore, he posted a 2.60 ERA and showed command and composure that teammates and coaches noticed right away.

His strong finish earned him a start in Game 2 of the Wild Card series—a real vote of confidence from the coaching staff in a high-pressure spot.

Leadership Matters in the Orioles’ Clubhouse

Interim manager Tony Mansolino described Eflin as an “incredible teammate,” highlighting his leadership and presence in the clubhouse. The front office clearly valued those qualities when deciding to bring him back.

Eflin didn’t hide his desire to return, either. He spoke openly about enjoying his time in Baltimore and credited the team atmosphere as a major reason he wanted to re-sign.

Baltimore’s Rotation Outlook for 2025

Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias has focused on pitching depth this offseason, and Eflin’s return fits that mindset. Elias reached out to Eflin while the pitcher was still rehabbing, making the club’s interest pretty clear.

The Orioles’ projected rotation right now looks like this:

Baz just arrived in a trade and is expected to play a big role. If Eflin’s healthy, he probably settles into a back-end rotation spot, bringing some much-needed stability and experience.

Roster Implications and Final Thoughts

Baltimore had to clear a spot on the 40-man roster after signing Eflin. So, they designated outfielder Will Robertson for assignment—a tough call, but they really didn’t have much choice with the current roster crunch.

This move shows the team trusts its medical staff and wants to keep its pitching options open. If Zach Eflin gets back to full health, the Orioles might land a reliable veteran starter and a solid presence in the clubhouse right when they need it most.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Source: Eflin returning to Orioles on one-year deal (updated)