The Baltimore Orioles made a significant trade acquisition by bringing in right-hander Zach Eflin from the Tampa Bay Rays. This move addressed their crucial need for bolstering their starting rotation. Eflin was highly regarded as one of the top pitchers available prior to the July 30 deadline. The Orioles, who currently share the best record in the American League with Cleveland, decided to pursue Eflin due to the high prices of other front-line left-handers such as Tarik Skubal and Garrett Crochet. As part of the trade, the Rays received outfielder Matthew Etzel, super-utility man Mac Horvath, and right-hander Jackson Baumeister.
Zach Eflin, a 30-year-old right-hander, has been a reliable presence in the Rays’ rotation ever since signing a lucrative three-year, $40 million contract before the 2023 season. However, with Eflin’s salary set to increase to $18 million next year and multiple starting pitchers returning from injuries, the Rays made it known to other teams that he was available for a trade. The Orioles, who have been plagued by injuries to pitchers like Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells this season, saw an opportunity to strengthen their rotation and seized it. In a separate trade on the same day, the Orioles also acquired right-handed reliever Seranthony Dominguez and center fielder Cristian Pache from Philadelphia for outfielder Austin Hays.
Zach Eflin has pitched 110 innings over 19 starts this season, posting a 4.09 ERA. Notably, his walk rate of 1.06 per nine innings is the second-best among qualified starting pitchers in the major leagues, trailing only Seattle’s George Kirby. However, Eflin’s strikeout numbers have declined this season, dropping from 9.4 per nine innings to 7.1. Additionally, he spent time on the injured list due to back inflammation in May and June. Despite these challenges, the Orioles saw potential in Eflin’s performance and were willing to leverage their deep farm system to secure his services.
The Orioles may not be done making moves before the deadline, as sources indicate that they are exploring additional trades. Players like first baseman Ryan Mountcastle and center fielder Cedric Mullins have been mentioned in trade discussions. The Orioles are also keen on adding a front-line starting pitcher like Tarik Skubal or Garrett Crochet. However, the Detroit Tigers have expressed reluctance to part ways with Skubal, while Crochet plans to end his season after recovering from Tommy John surgery, unless he receives a contract extension.
The Baltimore Orioles’ acquisition of Zach Eflin marks a significant move to strengthen their starting rotation and position themselves for a successful second half of the season. With key players added through trades and potential moves on the horizon, the Orioles are looking to build on their strong start and make a push for postseason contention in the competitive American League.