Zach Eflin Successfully Completes UCL Surgery
The Baltimore Orioles announced that Zach Eflin successfully completed UCL reconstruction surgery. Unfortunately, he will miss the remainder of the 2026 season and possibly part of the 2027 season as well.
Details of Zach Eflin’s Surgery
Eflin, who turned 32 on the day of his surgery, initially experienced elbow discomfort during his season debut. Following this, the team sought a second opinion, revealing serious concerns about his elbow health. The recent reexamination confirmed ligament damage, necessitating surgical intervention to repair the injury.
Eflin’s Injury History
- Chronic knee issues during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies.
- Maintained relative health from 2023 to 2024, despite occasional back problems.
- Achieved a 3.54 ERA and a 23.1% strikeout rate over 343 innings with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Orioles.
- Sustained a lat strain in early 2025, which sidelined him for a month.
- Underwent season-ending lumbar surgery after recurring lower back discomfort.
Prior to this season, Eflin appeared to be on a positive trajectory. He returned without restrictions but couldn’t last more than 3.2 innings before the elbow injury reoccurred.
Contract and Future Plans
The Orioles re-signed Eflin to a one-year, $10 million contract last offseason. Unfortunately, this investment may be seen as lost due to his inability to contribute this season. Eflin now finds himself on the 60-day injured list and will likely seek a two-year contract following his rehabilitation, potentially as a minor league deal considering his recent injury challenges.
Orioles’ Rotation Outlook
As the Orioles adjust to Eflin’s absence, the team’s starting rotation will include:
- Trevor Rogers
- Kyle Bradish
- Shane Baz
- Chris Bassitt
Recently, the team recalled Cade Povich, who stepped in as a fifth starter after a challenging outing from Bassitt against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Povich delivered an impressive performance, pitching 5.2 innings with only two earned runs.
Brandon Young made a spot start recently but was sent back to Triple-A after the game. The Orioles are scheduled to take a break before their upcoming series against the San Francisco Giants, with Povich expected to take Eflin’s spot in the rotation. Meanwhile, Rogers and Bradish will line up early next week against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
