The Baltimore Orioles will activate right-handed pitcher Zach Eflin from the injured list to start Wednesday’s game against the Cleveland Guardians. Eflin’s return is highly anticipated as the team looks to strengthen its rotation with him back on the mound. The move requires Baltimore to make a corresponding roster adjustment to accommodate Eflin on the active roster.
Eflin’s Condition and Recent Performance
Interim manager Tony Mansolino shared that Eflin has been frustrated by being sidelined due to a lower back strain but remains in good spirits.
“Being on the IL here with the lower back strain, he’s unhappy,”
Mansolino said.
“Really optimistic about where he’s at, where his mind is at. Looking forward to seeing him take the ball tomorrow.”
Before his injury, Eflin last pitched on June 28 against the Tampa Bay Rays, where he struggled in one inning, allowing four runs on five hits. In his first full season with Baltimore, he has compiled a 6-5 record with a 5.95 ERA across 12 starts, striking out 42 batters in 62 innings. Throughout his career, Eflin holds a 68-67 record and a 4.27 ERA, spanning his time with the Philadelphia Phillies, Tampa Bay Rays, and Orioles.
Adley Rutschman Progressing Toward Return
Alongside Eflin’s impending comeback, Baltimore’s top catcher, Adley Rutschman, is approaching a return from a strained left oblique. Rutschman participated in a rehab game at Triple-A Norfolk on Tuesday as the designated hitter, going 1-for-3 at the plate. Mansolino indicated his plan for Rutschman to catch in consecutive games at Norfolk before rejoining the Orioles’ active roster.
The former No. 1 overall draft pick in his fourth major league season was batting .227 with eight home runs and 20 RBIs in 68 games before the injury sidelined him. Rutschman last appeared for Baltimore on June 19, and his return is expected to provide a critical boost to the team’s lineup and defense behind the plate.
Implications for the Orioles
Bringing back Eflin and preparing for Rutschman’s activation signal an important step forward for the Orioles as they aim to improve their performance this season. Eflin’s presence in the rotation and Rutschman’s leadership behind the plate are likely to bolster Baltimore’s competitive edge in upcoming games. Fans and management alike will be watching closely as both players work toward full contributions for the team’s push in the months ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Zach Eflin’s religion?
A. Brittany, Eflin’s oldest sister, works as a registered nurse. Eflin often relied on his Christian beliefs during his childhood; his grandfather was a pastor for six decades. Eflin went to Paul J.