Right-handed pitcher Zach Eflin has endured a challenging 2025 season, struggling to find consistency for the Baltimore Orioles. Over 12 starts and 62 innings pitched, he carries a 6-5 record but sports an elevated 5.95 ERA and a 1.44 WHIP, signaling struggles to contain opposing hitters. Despite these issues, the Mets are reportedly considering a trade to add him to their rotation as they seek pitching help this season.
Current Status and Injury Impact
At 31 years old, Eflin is currently on the 15-day injured list due to lower-back soreness but appears to be progressing, having completed a second rehabilitation start where he allowed two earned runs across eight innings. This marks his second stint on the injured list this year, and his injuries may have contributed to diminished effectiveness on the mound when healthy. His underlying metrics reflect this downturn, as his ERA and FIP remain above league averages, indicating challenges in limiting runs and managing contact.
Pitching Metrics and Changes in Approach
One factor in Eflin’s struggles this season is the decreased effectiveness of his sinker and cutter, which previously generated positive run values but have plunged to negative territory in 2025. Conversely, his changeup has improved in value and usage, thrown more frequently—particularly against left-handed hitters—who have slugged only .346 against it. Despite this, his overall pitch quality, measured by Stuff+, has slipped from exactly league average (100) last year to below average (93) this year, contributing to his inconsistent results.
Proposed Trade Details Between Mets and Orioles
With Eflin’s contract expiring at the season’s end, his trade value is diminished, and the Orioles are expected to view him as a rental asset. Last year, the Tampa Bay Rays secured several prospects for him, but his value has decreased since then. The current potential deal would have the Mets acquire Eflin while sending right-handed pitching prospect Dom Hamel to Baltimore. Hamel is highly regarded, ranked 24th among Orioles prospects by MLB Pipeline and 48th overall by analyst Mike Mayer.
Potential Outcomes and Strategic Considerations for the Mets
The Mets face a calculated risk by targeting Eflin given his disappointing season, but their immediate need for starting pitching makes the gamble plausible. If the Mets can help Eflin regain form, he could provide valuable innings and possibly stabilize their rotation during the stretch run. On the other hand, if he continues to underperform, the team can cut ties in the offseason without sacrificing a significant prospect pool. This balance between risk and reward underscores the Mets’ cautious but hopeful approach with the right-hander.
“Eflin is a solid starter who has simply had a down year overall, but with the Mets needing starters, Eflin could be a decent fit, should the Mets think they could correct his woes. The worst-case scenario for the Mets is you cut your losses in the offseason and minimal prospect cost. Best-case scenario, he gives the Mets solid innings down the stretch and helps stabilize the rotation.”
—Mike Mayer, Baseball Analyst
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Zach Eflin’s religion?
A. His oldest sister, Brittany, works as a nurse. While growing up, Eflin relied a lot on his Christian beliefs. His father’s father has been a pastor for six decades. Eflin went to Paul J.