Zach Eflin Returns to Orioles After Back Surgery, Aims for Opening Day

Zach Eflin has re-signed with the Baltimore Orioles on a one-year, $10 million deal with a mutual option for 2027, eager to prove himself after an injury-plagued 2025 season. The righty struggled with a lat strain and lower back discomfort, undergoing a lumbar microdiscectomy in August. Eflin, who felt immediate relief post-surgery, aims to be ready for Opening Day 2026, stating he's in the best physical condition of his life. The Orioles hope for a return to his 2023 form (16-8, 3.50 ERA, AL wins leader) to solidify their rotation, with Eflin motivated to contribute after a challenging year.